McCormick Shares Latest Injury News Before Wild Card Matchup

When the Pittsburgh Steelers selected tackle Troy Fautanu and center Zach Frazier in the first two rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft, the plan was clear: bolster the offensive line with young talent.

While Frazier has held down the center position, injuries have shuffled the rest of the lineup. Fourth-round rookie Mason McCormick stepped in for veteran guard James Daniels after Daniels tore his Achilles early in the season. McCormick has shown flashes of promise alongside Frazier, but his Week 18 hand injury raised concerns as the Steelers prepare for their Wild Card showdown against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Steelers released their Tuesday injury report, which highlighted McCormick’s status:

Did Not Participate

• DT Cameron Heyward (Illness)
• OL Isaac Seumalo (Rest)

Limited Participation

• TE MyCole Pruitt (Knee)
• G Mason McCormick (Hand)

Full Participation

• WR Roman Wilson (Hamstring)
• CB Donte Jackson (Back)
• LB Cole Holcomb (Knee)
• DT Logan Lee (Calf)
• OL Calvin Anderson (Groin)

McCormick addressed reporters Tuesday, sharing his optimism about his recovery. “It’s already feeling a lot better, so I’m really optimistic,” he said, adding that he won’t play unless he can perform at a high level. If McCormick does suit up on Saturday, it won’t be with a cast, a positive sign for his ability to contribute effectively.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Pittsburgh, as they enter Saturday’s game as 10-point underdogs against a Ravens team they’ve already beaten once this season. Having McCormick in the lineup would be a significant boost, as his athleticism and growth in pass protection have been critical in stabilizing the offensive line.

Should McCormick be unable to go, backup Spencer Anderson is expected to step in, making his playoff debut. With health and depth being crucial to mitigate the Ravens’ talent advantage, the Steelers will hope their rookie guard is ready to take the field.