Steelers vs Bengals Week 7 injury report: DK Metcalf expected to play this week; latest on Joe Burrow's status
Pittsburgh visits Cincinnati on Thursday with DK Metcalf cleared to play, while Bengals QB Joe Burrow remains sidelined for months after toe surgery.
An old-school AFC North rivalry kicks off Week 7 as the Pittsburgh Steelers head to Cincinnati to face the Bengals on Thursday night (October 16). Pittsburgh (4–1) will enter the match on the back of three straight wins, while Cincinnati (2–4) is still reeling from Joe Burrow’s injury.
DK Metcalf injury update
In positive news for the Steelers, wide receiver DK Metcalf is expected to remain available for Thursday’s game. Metcalf, who appeared on the Week 7 injury report with a rest designation, logged full participation in practice this week and carries no official game status. The 27-year-old has been a key target for Aaron Rodgers this season, posting 19 receptions for 356 yards and four touchdowns on 31 targets.
Joe Burrow injury update
The Bengals continue to adjust their roster without Joe Burrow. The quarterback underwent surgery on September 19 to repair a Grade 3 turf toe injury, an issue expected to sideline him for at least three months. That timeline would make him eligible to return by Week 16 against Miami on December 21, according to an NFL report. Burrow’s absence leaves the Bengals leaning on their depth and defense as they try to stay afloat in the division.
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Pittsburgh Steelers latest injury news
Several Steelers veterans are listed as rest-day participants, including TJ Watt, Cameron Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, and DeShon Elliott, all of whom did not practice on Wednesday but are expected to suit up. Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and Miles Killebrew (knee) remain questionable. Rodgers, despite a “rest” tag, practiced fully.
Cincinnati Bengals latest injury news
Cincinnati’s defensive front is out injured, with Trey Hendrickson (hip) and B.J. Hill (rest) missing practice. Tanner Hudson (concussion) and Mike Gesicki (pectoral) also sat out. On a brighter note, linemen Shemar Stewart, Amarius Mims, and Lucas Patrick all took part in practice.
The Steelers (3–2) will look to capitalize on a Burrow-less Bengals (2–3) squad in a matchup that could shape the AFC North standings. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET, and the game will be aired on Amazon Prime Video.
Also Read: Bengals vs Steelers: Joe Flacco, 40; Aaron Rodgers, 41, to make history in Week 7
FAQs:
1. Is DK Metcalf playing in Week 7 against the Bengals?
Yes. Metcalf practiced fully this week and carries no injury designation for Thursday’s game.
2. What’s Joe Burrow’s injury status for Week 7?
Burrow remains out after toe surgery and is expected to miss at least three months, possibly the rest of the regular season.
3. Who is starting for the Bengals in place of Joe Burrow?
The Bengals will continue with their backup quarterback as Burrow recovers, though the team has not confirmed the Week 7 starter.
