Steelers Emerge “Virtually Injury Free” After 31-25 Win Over Jaguars; Cameron McCutcheon Leaves Early

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers walked away from their 31-25 preseason victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars with a mostly clean bill of health, according to head coach Mike Tomlin. Speaking to reporters after the game, Tomlin reported that the team finished the contest “virtually injury free,” with just one player being removed from play due to an in-game issue.

That lone injury belonged to cornerback Cameron McCutcheon, who exited the game with what Tomlin described as a “soft tissue injury, maybe a hamstring that needs to be evaluated.” McCutcheon was taken out in the second half, and further updates on his status are expected following additional medical evaluation.

Before his exit, McCutcheon made his presence felt on the field. The 6-foot-1, 204-pound cornerback appeared to record an interception, which would have been a momentum-shifting play in the second half. However, the turnover was nullified due to a roughing the passer penalty elsewhere on the field, erasing what would have been a highlight moment for the young defensive back.

McCutcheon joined the Steelers in January on a futures contract and has been battling for a roster spot during training camp and the preseason. With a secondary still sorting out depth roles behind starters, the injury is a setback for the young corner as he looks to solidify his place on the team.

While McCutcheon was the only player injured during the game itself, several key Steelers were held out entirely due to pre-existing injuries or precautionary reasons. Notably, rookie quarterback Will Howard did not suit up, as the team continues to monitor his progress. Howard, a fifth-round pick, has shown promise during camp, but the Steelers are expected to be cautious with their young passer in the preseason stretch.

Also sitting out were outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, wide receiver Calvin Austin III, and cornerbacks Cory Trice Jr. and Donte Kent. Highsmith, a starter and defensive leader, is expected to be ready for the regular season, though his absence in the preseason games has given younger players more reps.

Austin, whose speed and versatility are key in the Steelers’ offensive plans, is also being managed carefully after previously dealing with injury issues.

The absences of Trice and Kent, two developing cornerbacks, further thin the secondary, making McCutcheon’s injury all the more impactful. However, Tomlin’s comments suggest no long-term concerns at this point in the preseason.

As Pittsburgh turns its attention to the next preseason matchup, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate roster depth while keeping a close eye on injury management. For now, the Steelers can breathe a sigh of relief after an overall healthy outing — a rarity in the grind of NFL preseason action.