Steelers Could Get Much-Needed Help on Defense

The Pittsburgh Steelers will hope for an added boost to their roster.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking for different ways to fill their void at safety, and will hope for the return of one of their depth pieces this week against the Cincinnati Bengals. 

Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick will not be available for the Steelers in Week 16 after suffering a knee injury. He is also unsure if the league will choose to suspend Damontae Kazee after being ejected against the Indianapolis Colts. 

With backup Trenton Thompson dealing with a stinger, the Steelers will look at alternative options as they prepare for Cincinnati. One of those options could be Elijah Riley, who Tomlin said has an opportunity to return from Injured Reserve from an ankle injury. 

Riley originally joined the team last season as a member of the practice squad but was signed to the active roster by the end of the year. He made the 53-man team this season, working as both a nickelback and safety, while also contributing on special teams. 

He's played 14 games for Pittsburgh over the last two years. 

The team will also look at practice squad member Eric Rowe, who signed with the team in the middle of the season. The 31-year-old has 100 games and 56 starts under his belt in the NFL, playing cornerback and safety. Last year, he started six games for the Miami Dolphins. 

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