While the Cleveland Browns are dealing with some wear and tear on the roster due to COVID-19 problems, Sunday’s opponent at FirstEnergy Stadium is shrinking the roster voluntarily.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that the Steelers will not have three perennial Pro Bowlers in their lineup in Week 17. Edge running back TJ Watt, defensive lineman Cameron Heyward and center Maurkice Pouncey will join starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on the sidelines instead of playing against the Browns. All four are healthy enough to play, but they will sit.
The absence of Watt, the NFL’s defensive player of the year leader, is a big advantage for the Browns ’offense. During this week’s press conferences, at Baker Mayfield, Cleveland QB, multiple questions were asked about Watt and his reverence and respect for the All-Pro was expressed in his responses.
Cleveland must win the game to get a postseason spot. Pittsburgh has already closed the AFC U.S. crown and can’t win a farewell to the wildcard round.