The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a 13-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 17, missing a chance to clinch the AFC North division. Cleveland's defense stepped up to prevent the Steelers from celebrating a title on their home field. The defeat creates a winner-take-all matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18.
In a tightly contested game at FirstEnergy Stadium, the Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 13-6 on Sunday, December 29, 2025. The Steelers entered the matchup with an opportunity to secure the AFC North crown for the first time since 2021, but their offense struggled to find rhythm, marking their first loss in Cleveland since that year.
Cleveland, sitting at 3-12 before the game and out of playoff contention, played with purpose. Defensive lineman Shelby Harris highlighted the team's motivation: "I think a big deal we made of it was that we’re not going to let them clinch at our house. They’re not going to come to Cleveland wearing AFC North division champions hats after the game – none of that. We took that to heart, and we went out there and dominated."
The Browns' defense, led by efforts from cornerback Denzel Ward—who sealed the game by defending three unsuccessful Aaron Rodgers throws into the end zone—held firm. Pittsburgh's defense generated stops and turnovers but couldn't capitalize offensively.
The loss keeps the Steelers' postseason hopes alive but precarious. They now face a decisive Week 18 game at Acrisure Stadium against the Baltimore Ravens, who improved to 11-5 with a 41-24 road victory over the Green Bay Packers. In that win, running back Derrick Henry rushed for 216 yards and four touchdowns on 36 carries, stepping up with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley starting in place of the injured Lamar Jackson.
Injuries compounded Pittsburgh's challenges. Tight end Darnell Washington broke his arm during the game, limiting his contributions to two catches for 15 yards in his season totals of 29 receptions for 349 yards and one touchdown. Wide receiver DK Metcalf missed his second game of a two-game suspension, further hampering the passing attack. Edge rusher T.J. Watt, sidelined for three games due to lung surgery, returned to limited practice last week but did not play.
For Baltimore, Jackson's status remains uncertain after missing Week 17 with a back injury, though reports suggest he could return. The Ravens had urged the Browns to upset Pittsburgh post-game, setting the stage for a high-stakes finale. A Steelers win or tie secures the division and the No. 4 seed; a loss ends their season in what would be a second straight late collapse.
