Steelers Elevate Veteran RB Sermon Ahead Patriots Game

The Pittsburgh Steelers have elevated veteran running back Trey Sermon from the practice squad to the active roster ahead of their Week 3 game against the New England Patriots, marking a response to rookie Kaleb Johnson's costly kickoff error in Week 2. Johnson, who muffed a kickoff that allowed the Seattle Seahawks to score a touchdown, is expected to lose his kickoff duties and potentially see little to no playing time in the upcoming game. Sermon, who has four seasons of NFL experience and has played for the Colts, Eagles, and 49ers, offers versatility on special teams and the offense, providing dependable support for the Steelers' struggling ground game. The team has also placed offensive lineman Max Scharping on injured reserve due to a knee injury, which opened the roster spot for Sermon's elevation. Despite Sermon's addition, Jaylen Warren remains the lead back, and Kenneth Gainwell continues to see increased workload, as the Steelers aim to improve their rushing attack, which currently ranks near the bottom of the league. Coach Mike Tomlin has expressed belief in Johnson's talent but emphasized the rookie must work his way back into the team's good graces through consistent effort.