Steelers Could Get Star Safety Back From Injured Reserve Against Saints

The Pittsburgh Steelers need any positive injury updates they can get right now. There's a chance the team will get one of their star players back for the first time this season in Week 7 versus the New Orleans Saints in Paris, France.

On Wednesday, safety DeShon Elliott was a full participant in practice. Elliott hasn't made his 2026 season debut yet as he sat on the injured reserve list so far. He actually hasn't competed since last October after he suffered an MCL sprain and hyperextended knee that required surgery. He also suffered a hamstring injury last season that he's still dealing with the repercussions from.

Elliott being a full participant on Wednesday sets him up perfectly to return to the field on Sunday versus the Saints. The Steelers opened up his 21-day practice window back on Oct. 8, so it took him a couple weeks to still feel ready.

The Steelers also released veteran safety Rayshawn Jenkins on Wednesday, meaning there would be room for Elliott back into the 53-man roster ahead of this weekend.

Elliott's career has been plagued with injuries as he's missed time every season except his sophomore season in 2020 with the Baltimore Ravens. He's been specifically dealing with hamstring issues for years.

In 2024, his first year in Pittsburgh, Elliott logged a career-high 108 tackles, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception. The Steelers are hoping to get the defensive force they signed up for back on the field.

Various other defensive Steelers players are questionable for Sunday's contest after Wednesday's injury report. Defensive back Jalen Ramsey didn't practice because of a wrist injury, the same day he was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Cornerback Brandin Echols (hamstring) and defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day (tricep) also both didn't practice. Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith was limited in practice with a groin injury.