Steelers QB Kenny Pickett (knee) on track to play against Ravens

Field Level Media|published: Thu 5th October, 17:34 2023

Oct 1, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) rolls out of the pocket during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. credits: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett was a full participant at practice Thursday and closer to being ready for the home game Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens.

Pickett, who sustained a bone bruise in his left knee last Sunday against the Houston Texans, had pledged earlier this week to play against the Ravens. He underwent an MRI exam that ruled out major damage.

"I'll be ready to go by Sunday," said Pickett, 25, who wore a brace on the knee during limited participation at Wednesday's practice.

He has completed 60.6 percent of his passes for 803 yards and four touchdowns.

The second-year pro has been intercepted four times and has thrown more interceptions (13) than touchdown passes (11) in his 17 NFL appearances (16 starts).

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said tight end Pat Freiermuth, who injured a hamstring against the Texans, was "very doubtful" for the game Sunday. The team elevated tight end Rodney Willilams from the practice squad to the 53-man roster on Thursday.

Freiermuth did not practice Thursday and was joined on the injury report by linebacker Alex Highsmith (groin), punter Pressley Harvin (right hamstring) and offensive linemen Dan Moore Jr. (knee) and James Daniels (groin).

Linebacker Cole Holcomb (back) went from limited at practice Wednesday to a full participant Thursday. Offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (elbow) was a full participant after not practicing Wednesday. Defensive end DeMarvin Leal (concussion) was upgraded from no practice to a limited participant.

—Field Level Media