The Pittsburgh Steelers certainly got some unfortunate news.
Pittsburgh selected right tackle Troy Fautanu in the first round of the 2024 National Football League Draft with the 20th overall pick. The Steelers snatched him up as a way to hopefully bolster the offensive line for years to come, starting this year. He only was able to appear in one game this season, though, and reportedly won’t appear in another in the regular season.
He suffered a knee injury and was placed on the Injured Reserve and now will miss the rest of the regular season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
“Sources: Steelers impressive rookie (right tackle) Troy Fautanu, who was placed on IR this week, suffered what is essentially a dislocated kneecap and will have surgery to repair the ligament damage,” Rapoport said. “Fautanu is out for the regular season, tho could return if PIT makes the playoffs.”
Pittsburgh has been fantastic so far this season. Justin Fields has been under center as the team’s starting quarterback, and Pittsburgh is just one of four teams currently at 3-0 with more games to be on Monday night. The fact that Fautanu possibly could return if the Steelers make the playoffs should be considered a good sign.
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It’s certainly too early to be thinking about the playoffs. But the Steelers have played well enough so far to slightly start thinking about the postseason. If everything continues to go their way, making the playoffs and the return of Fautanu could go a long way.
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