Steelers' defensive line could be undermanned against the Bears

With 1.5 sacks through ten games, Heyward hasn't had as much of an impact in the stat sheets as years past. However, his impact on their defensive line goes far beyond sack production. He consistently opens up opportunities for those playing beside him and is still capable of wrecking an opponent's gameplan.

Most teams would crumble without two starters along the defensive line. With that said, the Steelers have incredible depth across their front seven. Highsmith is third on the team in sacks, as Nick Herbig leads the team with 6.5, and Watt ranks second with 6.

Losing Heyward would deal a heftier blow to the interior, especially in terms of their ability to slow down Chicago's second-ranked rushing offense. They do have two highly drafted players there in 2023 second-round selection Keeanu Benton, who is in the midst of a breakout year with 4.5 sacks, and 2025 first-round pick Derrick Harmon. You could make a strong case that they have the league's most stacked defensive line from top to bottom.

Meanwhile, Chicago's offense should be relatively healthy coming into the matchup. Theo Benedet, who is listed as questionable with a quad injury, is the only starter with an injury designation. However, he was limited in practice both yesterday and today and seems every bit like the type to play through such a thing.

With the Bears' linebacking corps decimated with injuries, the Steelers certainly have the edge in the war of attrition. However, even with great depth, their defensive line could take a hit if both are forced to miss the game.