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Latest Steelers news foreshadows the end of recent hardship

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Rob Gregson | Last updated 12/16/23

The Pittsburgh Steelers are holding onto their playoff hopes with everything they have.

Just hours before a pivotal matchup with the Colts, Pittsburgh may be locked in on today, but they could have an eye on the future.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Kenny Pickett is giving it his best shot to play against the Bengals next week:

An Early Return?

From @NFLGameDay Kickoff: #Steelers QB Kenny Pickett is pushing to play next week but Week 17 against the #Seahawks is a bit more realistic. Meanwhile, there is a realistic chance that RB Jonathan Taylor (thumb) is back next week vs. the #Falcons. pic.twitter.com/mdz66YFAlh
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2023

Pickett first injured his ankle sometime before the Week 13 Cardinals game, where he went down clutching his lower leg and returned to the sideline in a walking boot. He would then have immediate surgery the day after, undergoing an innovative procedure called a "Tightrope" surgery, where a rod is placed into the ankle to accelerate the healing process.

If Pickett were to return against Seattle, that would be a win as sources close to the situation said a regular season finale against the Baltimore Ravens was the more likely timetable.

So whether or not Pickett plays against the Bengals is up in the air, but this report is still very encouraging for Pittsburgh.

Now, his return is largely dependent upon the Steelers' results against the Colts, as a win will give them a 56% chance of making the postseason, while a loss will give them only a 12% chance.

Guess you can say the stakes for today's game just got raised.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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