Updating coverage of the Steelers' Week 16 clash with the 8-6 Lions (Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET at Ford Field), Pittsburgh builds on QB Aaron Rodgers' hot streak with new receivers and roster moves to offset injuries like T.J. Watt's absence, while addressing special teams concerns.
As detailed in yesterday's preview highlighting key injuries—including T.J. Watt out (lung surgery), Nick Herbig doubtful (hamstring), and Zach Frazier returning—the Steelers are adapting their roster for the pivotal 8-6 matchup.
Offense has surged, powered by Aaron Rodgers. Over his last two games, he posted a 75.4% completion rate, three TDs, zero INTs—despite a fractured left wrist in a cast—vaulting to No. 11 in NFL.com rankings (up five spots). Analyst Nick Shook raved: “He’s cooking right now and should make opposing defenses lose some sleep.” Recent WR additions Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Adam Thielen have boosted DK Metcalf, who exploded for 10 catches on 15 targets, 203 yards, and a TD in those contests. Still, The Athletic’s Robert Mays cautioned on FS1’s The Herd: “The offense is a little too limited for them to really give anybody any problems once they get into the playoffs.”
Roster tweaks target depth: The Steelers signed EDGE Jeremiah Moon to reinforce outside linebackers, waiving DT Brodric Martin-Rhodes (claimed by Raiders after one game, 10 snaps). Special teams got a lift with practice squad addition Cal Adomitis (Pittsburgh native, ex-Pitt), replacing LB Kana’i Mauga, as long snapper Christian Kuntz is questionable (knee from Thursday). Adomitis, who filled in for nine Eagles games this season, said: “My job doesn’t really change no matter where I am. I’m ready to go if I’m called.”
These changes test Pittsburgh's playoff push against Detroit's NFL-leading scoring offense, with the Lions favored by 7.