TAMPA, Fla. -- The Pittsburgh Steelers placed Roman Wilson on the injured reserve list, their second key receiver lost to injury in as many weeks.
Wilson will miss at least four weeks because of a finger injury sustained in Pittsburgh's Week 5 win against the Indianapolis Colts. A favorite downfield target of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Wilson had two touchdown catches this season.
Last week, the Steelers placed Michael Pittman Jr. on IR after the veteran aggravated a foot injury.
"Seems like at this point it's just in-house options," Rodgers said this week in preparation for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "So we've got a talented p-squad group of guys -- and guys who played football at the highest level and made plays. I'm excited about getting those guys in.
"... We'll get some guys who haven't seen a lot of time out there and expect them to play well."
To replace their missing pass catchers, the Steelers elevated receivers Brandon Smith and Brandon Johnson from the practice squad.
The Steelers previously ruled out receiver and special teams ace Ben Skowronek, leaving them without three of their top five pass catchers against Tampa Bay. Meanwhile, tight end Pat Freiermuth (calf) was added to the injury report Saturday and listed as questionable.
The Steelers, however, got good news about top wideout DK Metcalf. He was taken off the injury list after missing Friday's practice with an illness.
"I've always been a fan of Brandon Johnson," Rodgers said this week. "I mean, he had his locker right next to mine last year. We had some great conversations. He's played and played well when he's gotten opportunities. Obviously I know B. Smith from New York and am a big believer in him."