If there was ever a game the Pittsburgh Steelers needed to have their roster at full strength for, it would be their Week 15 encounter with the New England Patriots. Following on from another tough AFC North battle, that is looking unlikely to happen after six names were listed on the team’s injury report released Wednesday.

DNP: Vance McDonald & Coty Sensabaugh (shoulders), Martavis Bryant (NIR), Stephon Tuitt (sick) LIM: Joe Haden (fibula), Tyler Matakevitch (shoulder) — Missi Matthews (@missi_matthews) December 13, 2017

Having picked up another injury against the Baltimore Ravens, Vance McDonald finds himself back on the injury report once again. The tight end has struggled to stay healthy this season and recovering in time to face the Patriots should not be assumed. Like McDonald, Coty Sensabaugh picked up a shoulder injury last weekend and will be one to keep an eye on as the week progresses.

While Martavis Bryant missed practice for personal reasons, it was an illness that kept Stephon Tuitt from training. Hopefully, both should be able to return to practice in time to get ready for New England.

Even though they were limited participants, it was encouraging to see Joe Haden and Tyler Matakevich taking some part in training to start the week. It will be important for them to be able to take a more active part in practice over the next few days if they hope to be cleared in time for the Patriots game.