PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Steelers will be without tight end Pat Freiermuth for the game at Kansas City on Sunday.
There was hope early in the week after Freiermuth reported to the Steelers facility on Monday. He was unable to practice after taking a shot to the head on Sunday and remains in concussion protocol.
Freiermuth is the Steelers third leading receiver with 49 catches for 422 yards and a team-leading seven touchdowns.
"Quite a bit obviously," said offensive coordinator Matt Canada of how not having Freiermuth impacts their gameplan. "He's made some really big plays for us and his growth has been tremendous for he's done in his first year."
Former college quarterback, now tight end Zach Gentry will start with Pine-Richland grad Kevin Rader as the back-up.
Steelers will also be without Chris Wormley, the veteran defensive lineman has a career-high six sacks this season in an expanded role. Wormley out with a groin injury. After rookie with more reps, fifth-round pick Isaiahh Loudermilk will be the primary replacement.
"I'm looking for him to take the next step if that comes about," said defensive captain Cam Heyward. "It's going to be a group effort but Isaiahh is going to have to play big for us."
Heyward says he likes what the rookie fifth-round pick from Wisconsin has done, but has high expectations. He's played in 12 games with a sack, 15 tackles and two passes defended.
Linebacker Buddy Johnson is out. He practiced full early in the week with his foot injury, but only limited on Friday and ruled out. That's a blow due to Devin Bush and Marcus Allen being on the reserve-COVID-19 list.
Starting left tackle Dan Moore returned from being limited on Thursday to going full. Joe Haden (foot), Ben Roethlisberger (pectoral/right shoulder) and Rader (hip) all went full.
