Along with being battered by way of the 49ers to start out their 2023 season, the Steelers additionally suffered main defeats at the shock entrance, shedding each vast receiver Diontae Johnson and defensive lineman Cameron Heyward in Sunday’s Date 1, 30-7 loss.

Heyward, the six-time Professional Bowler, was once first of all dominated questionable to go back with a groin shock as Pittsburgh trailed 17-0. He did go back to the garden after, best to travel again to the sidelines following a couple of snaps, the place he was once dominated out for the remains of the sport. The workforce’s defensive entrance had already been coping with accidents, with backups Armon Watts and DeMarvin Leal each harm.

On Monday, NFL Media reported that Heyward is most likely headed to injured book, will omit a couple of weeks and is comparing all choices, together with surgical treatment.

Johnson, in the meantime, removed from a hamstring shock early in the second one part and was once dominated out about midway throughout the 3rd quarter. He led the Steelers with 3 catches for 48 yards on an another way dismal offensive date ahead of exiting. The veteran may be anticipated to be sidelined a number of weeks, according to ESPN.

Pittsburgh’s steadiest pass-catcher of latest years, Johnson entered 2023 having a look to document his fourth directly season with no less than 850 yards. Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett grew to become to more youthful wideouts George Pickens and Calvin Austin, in addition to second-year tight finish Pat Freiermuth, instantly following Johnson’s journey.