Steelers Rule Out Key Starter For Week 14 Rivalry Game Vs. Ravens

The Pittsburgh Steelers will miss a defensive starter in their seismic Week 14 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

Pittsburgh ruled out Kyle Dugger with a hand injury on Friday. The safety missed practice all week, first appearing on Thursday’s injury report.

Dugger quickly became a vital part of Pittsburgh’s secondary after arriving via a midseason trade with the New England Patriots. He’s played all but two of the defense’s snaps in five games since the move, tallying 23 tackles, four passes defended, and a 73-yard interception returned for a touchdown in a Week 11 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Steelers have started Dugger and former cornerback Jalen Ramsey at safety to replace the injured DeShon Elliott. They rank 28th in passing defense following a Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Pittsburgh goes from facing Josh Allen to fellow MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson, who returned to practice and carries no injury designation after missing Thursday’s practice. Both teams are 6-6 before battling for control of the AFC North this Sunday at M&T Stadium.

Dugger won’t be the only player sidelined for the division battle. The Steelers also ruled out offensive lineman Calvin Anderson and defensive tackle Derrick Harmon with knee injuries. Ramsey (rest) and linebacker Patrick Queen (glute) were limited participants in Friday’s practice, and Aaron Rodgers is slated to keep playing through a wrist fracture after fully practicing.

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