Unfortunately, the fear for a fractured fibula, which was a potential by video, has come true for Steelers cornerback Joe Haden.

Limited video.

Hope for contusion and negative X-ray on fibula. https://t.co/hoKPxfiq0f — David J. Chao, MD (@ProFootballDoc) November 12, 2017

By limited video, Haden took a direct blow on his lower leg by the knee.

Haden did not return to the game against the Colts, but he came back on the sideline using crutches and with a calf sleeve.


After the game, the team confirmed the fracture.

#Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says that CB Joe Haden broke his fibula and is out indefinitely. Major hit to the secondary. — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 12, 2017

The possible good news is that “indefinitely” doesn’t have to mean a long time.

Haden’s season does not have to be over. He could return in as little as 4-6 weeks.


There are two bones in the lower leg. The tibia is the primary bone for weight bearing and support. The fibula, especially where Haden was hit, is not structural. Thus, there will be no requirement for a cast.

It is doubtful he has surgery, because the fracture is in a location that is not important for weight bearing. As such he could have a return this season. The worst case is IR and return for playoffs.

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