The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed linebacker Tyler Matakevich on the injured reserve list due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2’s game against the Denver Broncos. The injury occurred while Matakevich made a tackle on a punt return.
As a result of being placed on the injured reserve list, Matakevich must miss at least four weeks. The Steelers can designate up to eight players to return from the injured reserve list per season, and they have already used two of those designations on tackle Dylan Cook and outside linebacker Jeremiah Moon.
Matakevich, 31, was a key contributor on special teams, leading all Steelers special teamers with two tackles over the first two games. He played 36 snaps, all on special teams, covering punt returns, kick coverage, and kick returns. Matakevich returned to Pittsburgh this summer after spending four seasons with the Buffalo Bills.
The Steelers have not announced a replacement for Matakevich on the 53-man active roster. Cornerback James Pierre, re-signed to the practice squad on Tuesday, could potentially fill Matakevich’s special teams role. However, wide receiver Ben Skowronek, who served as a special teams gunner, is also dealing with a shoulder injury, according to head coach Mike Tomlin.
