PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Out over a month with a foot injury and really not right yet this season, Steelers receiver Michael Pittman, Junior didn’t rule out returning after the bye week.
Pittman, Junior ran on the field on Monday calling it a step in the right direction as he first dealt with plantar fasciitis in training camp, but said now it’s morphed into something else with his foot, which he didn’t disclose. He has custom insoles and currently just trying to strengthen the foot.
The 29-year-old said surgery is not an option and said he will only play if he can be effective, likely referring to trying to play through the first three games of the season with seven catches for 89 yards.
“The most injuries I’ve had to deal with in my seven years,” Pittman, Junior said. “It definitely sucks to come to a new team and then be riddled with injuries. I try to get back out there as soon as possible and prove to this team that I came here to better it and not just sit on the sidelines.”
The first-year Steeler isn’t sure when or even if he would return at all this season. It may not be realistic, but he hasn’t been placed on season-ending injured reserve and is trying to work and remain optimistic. He said he’s staying sharp mentally and managing his workload.
“He’s been attacking his rehab, doing a great job,” said Steelers offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio. “He’s been in all the meetings and taking notes and part of the game plan. That’s the thing as a pro and Pittman has been doing this a long time. He’s actively involved, it’s not like he’s not in the meetings and hearing what we are doing.”
“Just getting him up to speed. Whenever he’s healthy, can’t wait to get him back out there.”
“It’s tough, obviously I put a lot of pressure on myself because I feel I haven’t been able to prove myself to these guys,” Pittman, Junior said. “There’s nothing I can really do about it except rehab as hard as possible and that’s what I’ve been doing.”
Reports are out there he won’t return, but he’s not giving up on playing in the second half.
What first-year Steeler said about the injury & trying to get back
What first-year Steeler said about the injury & trying to get back
