Steelers Suffer Multiple Defensive Injuries vs Jets

The Pittsburgh Steelers faced multiple defensive injuries during their Week 1 game against the New York Jets, significantly impacting their depth. Linebacker Malik Harrison suffered a knee injury late in the game and was ruled out, which compounds the team's already thin outside linebacker corps due to Nick Herbig's hamstring issue. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. also sustained an injury during the third quarter, though the exact nature remains unclear, potentially increasing playing time for backups like Brandin Echols and James Pierre. Safety DeShon Elliott left the game with a knee injury and was declared doubtful to return; his absence would elevate veterans Chuck Clark and possibly Jalen Ramsey to larger roles in the secondary. Elliott had recently signed a two-year extension after an outstanding previous season characterized by exceptional tackling efficiency and strong run defense grades. These injuries pose a challenge for the Steelers' defense as they try to contain Jets quarterback Justin Fields, who was effective throughout the game.