The Steelers earned a win in Dublin on Sunday, but they could be shorthanded on both sides of the ball upon returning to action. Cornerback Jalen Ramsey as well as receiver Calvin Austin suffered injuries in the game against the Vikings. 
Pittsburgh’s bye is Week 5, something which will be welcomed with respect to injury recoveries. Ramsey is dealing with a hamstring ailment, while Austin suffered a shoulder injury on Sunday. Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports both players are expected to miss multiple games.
Ramsey attempted to return to the game against Minnesota after suffering the injury, but he was unable to continue. Losing the All-Pro for any period would deal a major blow to the Steelers’ defense given the impact made early on with his latest team. Ramsey has totaled 14 tackles, one interception and four pass deflections through the first month of the campaign while serving as a key member of the Steelers’ secondary.
Joey Porter Jr. has yet to play since Week 1, so Ramsey missing time after the bye could see two starters at the cornerback position unavailable for Pittsburgh. Free agent addition Darius Slay will be counted on to remain a first-team presence in any case. Given Ramsey’s inclusion in the blockbuster trade involving Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jonnu Smith this offseason, his long-term health will no doubt be a priority for Pittsburgh. Ramsey’s contact runs through 2028.
Austin, by contrast, is a pending free agent. Missing time in his case would therefore be detrimental as it pertains to his market value, especially considering the fact he was sidelined for his entire rookie season. The 26-year-old played every game in 2023 and ’24, but his run of availability is now in danger of coming to at least a temporary end. Austin has averaged just under 14 yards per catch this season while scoring two touchdowns.
If he misses time, D.K. Metcalf will continue operating as Pittsburgh’s No. 1 wideout. Depth could become a concern, though, since this season was viewed as a prime opportunity for Austin to emerge as a consistent WR2 option. 2024 third-rounder Roman Wilson – who has just one reception on two targets so far – could see an uptick in usage if Austin finds himself sidelined for a stretch.
The Steelers improved to a division-leading 3-1 yesterday. That of course represents a strong start to the campaign but it will be interesting to see if they will be at less than full strength after the bye.