Steelers security Minkah Fitzpatrick out weeks after appendectomy, sources say

On the day they activated pass-rusher T.J. Watt from injured reserve, the Pittsburgh Steelers misplaced Professional Bowl security Minkah Fitzpatrick for a number of weeks when he was pressured to endure an appendectomy after their walk-through apply Saturday, league sources instructed ESPN.

Fitzpatrick didn’t really feel properly at apply, and checks revealed that he wanted to endure the appendectomy as shortly as potential, a supply mentioned. The Steelers had introduced Saturday that Fitzpatrick would miss Sunday’s recreation in opposition to the New Orleans Saints with appendicitis.

The Steelers are hoping that Fitzpatrick could make it again as shortly as potential, however an appendectomy usually ends in a multiweek absence.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow underwent an appendectomy simply earlier than coaching camp started this summer season and was sidelined two-and-a-half weeks earlier than he returned to apply.

Together with lacking the Saints recreation, Fitzpatrick isn’t anticipated to be able to play subsequent week at residence in opposition to the Bengals, sources mentioned. Maybe Fitzpatrick might return the next Monday night time, Nov. 28, when the Steelers play in Indianapolis, however that appears bold and can rely on the security’s restoration.

Earlier this week, the Steelers activated security Damontae Kazee from injured reserve, they usually activated security Elijah Riley from the apply squad for Sunday’s recreation.

Data from ESPN’s Brooke Pryor was used on this report.