The Steelers had been banged up heading into their matchup with the Raiders on Christmas Eve. And in the 13-10 victory, Pittsburgh escaped with minimal casualties on the injury report.
Tre Norwood was the only Steelers player who was reported to leave the game with any injury.
Late in the first half, Derek Carr connected on a deep pass to Darren Waller that gained 34 yards, eventually leading to a field goal. Three Steelers were around Waller, but couldn't break up the pass. However, Norwood landed awkwardly on his right leg in pursuit of Waller and immediately grabbed at his right hamstring.
Norwood attempted to walk off the field under his own power, but had to wait for trainers to tend to him. He was then helped off the field and immediately taken into the tunnel.
At first Norwood was considered questionable to return, but was later ruled out.
Mike Tomlin announced after the game that Marcus Allen was also being evaluated for a bicep injury, and he was seen in a sling in the locker room after the game.
Allen's potential loss may not impact the Steelers as much as Norwood. Even though Norwood told DK Pittsburgh Sports that he was "fine," a hamstring injury with two games remaining in the season doesn't bode well for his return. What's more, he was helping fill in for an injured Terrell Edmunds, who is dealing with a hamstring injury of his own.
Fortunately, the Steelers dodged a major bullet on a play shortly after Norwood's injury. On a deep pass intended for Waller in the end zone, Minkah Fitzpatrick slipped on the icy concrete in front of the stands. He was slow to get up, but remained in the game and wound up with an interception in the second half.
