Steelers List Three Players As Questionable For Week 4 Matchup

The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to have some new injury worries entering Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.

Along with officially ruling out linebacker Alexander Highsmith, the Steelers listed three significant players as questionable in Friday’s injury report. Jaylen Warren, Jonnu Smith and Joey Porter Jr. are all uncertain to play after limited participation in Friday’s practice.

Warren’s inclusion is arguably the most concerning development. The Steelers listed the running back as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice as a resting veteran, but they added a knee issue on Thursday.

After signing a two-year extension this offseason, Warren has averaged just 3.1 yards per carry through three games. Yet he has also helped Aaron Rodgers as a pass catcher, securing 11 of 12 targets for 142 yards and a touchdown.

Warren played a season-high 43 of the offense’s 54 snaps in last Sunday’s 21-14 win over the New England Patriots. The NFL’s 31st-ranked rushing attack would turn to Kenneth Gainwell, Trey Sermon and Kaleb Johnson if Warren can’t play in Ireland this Sunday.

Smith made his first Pro Bowl by setting career highs in catches (88) and receiving yards (884) last season before the Miami Dolphins sent him to Pittsburgh as part of the Jalen Ramsey trade. The tight end hasn’t made nearly the same impact for the Steelers, catching 12 of 13 targets for 65 yards and a touchdown.

Smith appeared on Wednesday’s injury report as a resting veteran before a hip limited him in practice on Thursday and Friday.

Porter has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury. A Steelers secondary allowing 8.5 yards per pass attempt could use the 25-year-old cornerback, who missed only one game in his first two seasons. They’re poised to welcome back starting safety DeShon Elliott, who no longer carries an injury designation after fully practicing on Friday.

The Dublin showdown between the Steelers and Vikings starts at 9:30 a.m. ET on the NFL Network.

More NFL: Vikings Week 4 Injury Report Vs. Steelers: Pro Bowl LB Ruled Out