Becoming a legitimate NFL contender often requires the Pittsburgh Steelers to have all of their key players available. Fortunately for Mike McCarthy, Jalen Ramsey has been activated off the PUP list and can now practice alongside his teammates, as well as Max Iheanachor.
During mandatory minicamp practices in Steel City, the cornerback suffered a significant knee injury that forced him to remain on the sideline ever since. His return is a very welcome development for the Steelers’ secondary.
Iheanachor’s situation is a bit more recent and not as serious. The rookie suffered neck and shoulder discomfort, which was enough to sideline him for the Steelers’ first two preseason games. Fortunately, he is now back and available to the coaching staff.
Pittsburgh practices with most of its key players
The alarms went off in Pittsburgh when two key players for Aaron Rodgers on offense were dealing with injuries. Michael Pittman Jr. suffered a minor hamstring issue during an early-August practice, while DK Metcalf was sidelined with an undisclosed injury.
Not only are Jalen Ramsey and Max Iheanachor back at practice, but WRs DK Metcalf (4) and Michael Pittman Jr. (11) are also in pads and going through stretch in the shooting period.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) August 24, 2026
Neither WR has practiced since undisclosed injuries at Saturday Night Lights on Aug 8. pic.twitter.com/I8R8UhjXoa
Fortunately for A-Rod, both receivers were able to return to practice alongside the rest of their Steelers teammates. McCarthy can breathe a sigh of relief, as barring any setbacks, both players are expected to be ready for the Week 1 opener.
Ramsey looks to repeat his 2025 season
Matching what he did last season would be great. Improving those numbers would be even better. Jalen Ramsey played all 17 games in 2025, recording 88 tackles, eight passes defended, one interception, and 3.0 sacks.
Alongside Jamel Dean, both players will look to stay in rhythm and execute the nickel formations that have produced positive results for the Steelers. McCarthy will undoubtedly have that option in mind from the season opener.
