Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has pectoral injury

The Cincinnati Bengals’ long-time nemesis, Ben Roethlisberger, may not be playing Sunday. For now, his status for the Week 3 matchup is unknown, but Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin did note that Big Ben is dealing with a pectoral injury.

Roethlisberger threw for 297 yards, 1 interception and one touchdown against the Raiders. He had just 188 yards and a touchdown against the Bills. It’s been a tough start to the season for Pittsburgh’s offense as first-round draft pick Najee Harris has yet to make his presence felt.

That said, it may be even harder to get back on track. Ed Bouchette noted Roethlisberger’s pec injury and also that OLB Alex Highsmith is dealing with a groin injury.

The Steelers are coming off a loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in which they allowed three first-half field goals yet only scored one touchdown. The Steelers have averaged 20 points per game.

Despite Big Ben not having played up to his standard, the Steelers would be in a much worse position without their veteran quarterback. Mason Rudolph or former Washington QB Dwayne Haskins would have to take over and fill in if he were to miss time.

The Steelers were able to host the Raiders in Week 2 at Heinz Field after hitting the road in Week 1. They’ll again play host to Cincinnati in Week 3.

The Bengals defensive line has been a much-improved unit, so they should be expected to be a tremendous amount of pressure on the hard-to-tackle veteran. Getting him down is easier said than done.

For now, Roethlisberger is expected to play as he finished out the game against the Raiders, having thrown 40 times. He’s currently sitting 12th in passing attempts.