“Pittsburgh Steelers get big boost for Jets game”

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers lost rookie star Zach Frazier to an ankle injury in Week 7 and are also without running back Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) and linebacker Nick Herbig (hamstring). But while the losses are notable, so are the returns – and Pittsburgh received a big boost on defense and the return of a reliable tight end on offense.

Against the New York Jets, the Steelers will welcome outside linebacker Alex Highsmith back to the field, marking his first game since exiting Week 3 with a groin injury. The star veteran brings 11 tackles, one sack and two tackles for loss back to Pittsburgh's defense, adding another dominant weapon on the other side of TJ Watt.

In the secondary, the Steelers get backup safety Damontae Kazee back after he missed last week with a foot/ankle injury. Kazee was banged up in Week 5 and was seen walking around in a walking boot last week. This week he was able to return to the field and be a full participant at the end of the training week, leaving him at no risk of injury before the game.

The ballhawking safety has eight tackles, one pass deflection and one interception so far this season. He will resume work behind Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott and allow the Steelers defense to utilize three safety sets.

On the offensive side of the ball, tight end MyCole Pruitt returns after missing most of the season with a knee injury. Pruitt was eliminated in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos and has not returned since.

The 32-year-old turned heads in both the blocking and receiving games before his departure. Since arriving in Pittsburgh, he has begun contributing on offense and special teams, becoming one of the most notable rookies on the Steelers' roster this season.

The Steelers will make their final decision on rookie Roman Wilson before kickoff. The wide receiver is currently battling a hamstring injury after missing most of the season and training camp with a sprained ankle. He made his NFL debut last week but only played five snaps.

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