Though it isn’t something that’s never happened before, the Pittsburgh Steelers are still entering somewhat uncharted territory this week in game-planning for a stretch during which they know for certain that they won’t have T.J. Watt available. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year suffered a pectoral injury in the opener that landed him on the Reserve/Injured List, which means he will miss at least the next four games.
The proverbial next man up is Malik Reed, who has been confirmed as taking the first-team reps at left outside linebacker in practice. The Steelers originally acquired him via trade from the Denver Broncos on the day of the final roster cuts, but he’s already earned the confidence of his teammates.