What happened: Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the extended timeline for Michael Pittman Jr. after the receiver suffered a setback with his foot. Safety DeShon Elliott provided a corresponding roster boost by rejoining his teammates on the field Thursday, though he currently remains on the injured reserve list.

Why it matters: Pittman's absence depletes a Pittsburgh receiving corps that must navigate the coming schedule without a primary target. The return of Elliott offers a potential lift for a Steelers secondary adjusting after the team traded Joey Porter Jr. to the Cowboys earlier this week.

What to watch: Pittsburgh medical staff will monitor Elliott's progress before determining his game-day availability. The Steelers must also decide whether to move Pittman to injured reserve, which would mandate a minimum four-game absence.