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The Steelers’ Week 6 bye seems to have treated them well as the team reported it has more help on the way on Monday.
Pittsburgh announced that WR Diontae Johnson and RB Anthony McFarland Jr. have returned to practice, opening up their 21-day window to either activate them to the 53-man roster or remain on injured reserve for the rest of the year.
Johnson, who suffered a hamstring injury in the Steelers’ season opener against the 49ers, was adamant last week about playing in Week 7.
“Hell yeah I’m coming back. I’ve been working my behind off,” Johnson told reporters. “I feel completely great and healthy. I’m ready for Monday when we come back to start getting back to work.”
The fifth-year wide receiver could be exactly what Pittsburgh’s offense needs as it ranks as the third-worst team in points per game (15.8) and sixth-worst team in passing yards per game (187.8) in the league. Johnson is arguably one of the best route runners in the NFL, which will only help second-year QB Kenny Pickett.
McFarland also got injured in Week 1, suffering a knee injury that has kept him sidelined.
The fourth-year running back was electric as a kickoff returner against San Francisco with three returns for 91 yards, averaging 30.3 yards per return. The Steelers certainly miss him after witnessing a special teams fumble by WR Gunner Olszewski in Week 5.
Pittsburgh, of course, still has a lot to figure out on offense with offensive coordinator Matt Canada still at the helm, but the additions of Johnson and McFarland back in the lineup should only help.
The Steelers will need them in Week 7 when they take on the Rams (3-3), who are allowing just 19.5 points per game.
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