Steelers Reveal 3 Key Injury Absences Ahead of Bengals Matchup
The Pittsburgh Steelers shared their final injury news on Friday, November 14, ahead of the Week 11 divisional game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
As always, team reporter Teresa Varley broke down the injury designations, noting that starting cornerback Darius Slay (concussion), starting edge rusher Alex Highsmith (pectoral), and linebacker/special teamer Cole Holcomb (illness) will not suit up this weekend. Each was officially ruled “out” in Week 11.
On top of those three absences, starting guard Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) and cornerback Cory Trice Jr. (hamstring/knee) were both labeled as “questionable” for the Bengals matchup.
Seumalo has been in and out of the gameday lineup with a nagging pectoral issue. After missing Week 10, the veteran offensive lineman returned to practice on Wednesday. It appears he’ll have a chance to go on Sunday, although it is notable that Seumalo has previously aggravated this injury.
As for Trice, the former seventh-round pick has yet to play in a game this year. So, it’s possible that Week 11 will be his 2025 debut.
Steelers’ Alex Highsmith ‘Frustrated’ Amid New Injury
GettyPittsburgh Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith will not play in Week 11.
It’s not the first time Highsmith has missed time this season. The edge rusher was out of the lineup from Week 3 through the Week 5 bye, but he’s been healthy ever since.
Needless to say, another injury has been “frustrating” for Highsmith.
“It’s just frustrating for something like this to pop up because I’m someone who really takes care of my body and does a lot extra to make sure these things don’t happen,” the veteran stated earlier this week.
“I just have to continue to rehab,” he added. “It’s frustrating because I care and I do a lot. I put a lot of work into my body, so I just have to continue to rehab and get it right.”
Highsmith also said that he was “optimistic” about playing through this pectoral injury in Week 11, but apparently, that’s not going to happen. Rising pass rusher Nick Herbig will presumably start in place of Highsmith.
Bengals QB Joe Flacco Is Battling Injury Ahead of the Week 11 Matchup With the Steelers
The Steelers aren’t the only ones with different injuries to manage in Week 11. Cincinnati has its fair share, including star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson and draft pick Shemar Stewart (both ruled out), as well as backup running back Samaje Perine (ruled out).
The other key injury to watch will be quarterback Joe Flacco. With Joe Burrow still working his way back from injury, Flacco has been key to the Bengals’ success.
Flacco did not practice on Friday after logging a “limited” practice session on Thursday, but he’s still expected to start on Sunday, according to Bengals columnist Mike Petraglia.
Similarly, ESPN beat reporter Ben Baby relayed the following on Flacco on November 14.
“A good week for Bengals QB Joe Flacco as he continues to deal with the sprained AC joint in his throwing shoulder,” Baby stated.
He added a quote from Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, who said: “Seemingly, he’s in a better spot this week. I feel very good about him playing on Sunday.”
It appears Flacco will at least give it a go in Week 11, although it should be noted that he seems to be playing through an injury.
Bo Nix Praises Taylor Swift’s Natural Beauty, Chooses 'No Makeup' Moment to Highlight Her True Elegance
Los Angeles, CA – College football star Bo Nix has always been known for his on-field leadership and remarkable talent, but his recent comments about pop superstar Taylor Swift have taken fans by surprise. Nix, who has garnered attention for his sports achievements, opened up in a recent interview about his admiration for Swift, particularly when it comes to her natural beauty.
In a candid moment, Nix was asked about his thoughts on the multi-talented artist, and he didn’t hold back. "Taylor is just stunning. She's not just talented, but her beauty shines through in everything she does — especially when she embraces her natural look," Nix said, referring to a viral moment where Swift shared a picture of herself without makeup. "That no-makeup moment really showcased her true elegance. It’s not often that you see someone so confident and comfortable in their own skin, and that’s what I really admire about her."
The image Nix referenced showed Swift in a relaxed, makeup-free moment, exuding confidence and authenticity, which resonated deeply with fans and sparked a conversation about self-love and embracing natural beauty. Nix, who has built a reputation for his grounded personality both on and off the field, found inspiration in Swift's ability to be vulnerable and real with her fans.
"It’s refreshing to see someone in the spotlight just being themselves. Taylor’s natural beauty is a testament to how powerful it is to be authentic," Nix continued. "I think that’s something a lot of people can relate to, especially in an industry where there's so much pressure to look a certain way. She’s a true role model."
Swift’s down-to-earth approach to her public image has long been a source of admiration for fans, and Nix’s praise only adds to her growing influence as a cultural icon. Her "no-makeup" moment highlighted not only her physical beauty but also her confidence and strength, qualities that resonate deeply with her fans, including Nix.
With both stars navigating their high-profile careers with grace, it’s clear that Swift’s impact extends beyond her music, leaving an impression on a wide range of people, including athletes like Bo Nix, who continue to express their admiration for her authenticity.
