Steelers star defensive back added to Reserve/COVID-19 List

Joe Haden may have played his final game for the Steelers. On Wednesday, Pittsburgh announced that the star cornerback has been placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 List.

“The Steelers placed cornerback Joe Haden on the Reserve/COVID-19 List on Wednesday,” announced the team on Wednesday.

Haden has been a leader on the Steelers defense since his arrival in Pittsburgh. After seven years with the Cleveland Browns, Haden decided to stay in the AFC North when he signed with Pittsburgh in 2017. Since then, he’s been a fixture in the Steelers’ secondary.

In his career with Pittsburgh, Haden has suited up for 67 games. During that time, the former Florida star accumulated 234 tackles, ten interceptions and three forced fumbles.

After the season, Haden will enter unrestricted free agency. On the wrong side of 30, the injuries have already been piling up for Haden. Time will tell if the Steelers opt to bring him back, or if he can find his footing with another franchise.

Barring a Week 18 miracle, the Steelers season will end this weekend. Unfortunately, Joe Haden likely won’t be on the field for what could be his his final chance to don the black and gold.

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Furthermore, the Steelers got some rough news regarding their defensive coordinator Keith Butler. The team also announced Butler is in the NFL’s COVID-19 protocols.

“Steelers Defensive Coordinator Keith Butler is in the League’s COVID-19 protocols & will not be available to the media during his normal Thursday time slot,” tweeted Pittsburgh Steelers Director of Communications Burt Lauten. “After practice on Thursday, Head Coach Mike Tomlin will be made available as a replacement for defensive questions.”

Moreover, the Steelers didn’t get good news on Joe Haden on Wednesday. However, Pittsburgh did get some positive revelations. The team will have reinforcements coming back from the Reserve/COVID-19 List.

“The Steelers did get some good news earlier today when multiple players were activated from the Reserve/COVID-19 List, just in time for Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium,” announced the team. “The team is activating offensive tackle Zach Banner, linebacker Devin Bush, defensive back Arthur Maulet, running back Anthony McFarland, linebacker Joe Schobert and defensive end Chris Wormley.”

As you can see, a bevy of starting-caliber players are on their way back for Pittsburgh. The Steelers are facing a must-win scenario on Sunday — without Joe Haden, their defense will have to step up.