The Pittsburgh Steelers are down two starting members of their secondary for Sunday’s home opener. Their opponent could very well be down a pair of defensive backs, too.
Devon Witherspoon — one of the best young cornerbacks in the game — was designated on the injury report as doubtful to be able to play for the Seattle Seahawks against the Steelers on Sunday. Witherspoon has a knee injury.
Rookie second-round pick Nick Emmanwori already was deemed unable to face the Steelers. Listed as a safety, Emmanwori has versatility to play myriad spots in the Seattle defense.
Starting safety Julian Love, however, was not given a status designation and will play Sunday. He had sat out practice Thursday because of a groin injury. Veteran Seahawks defensive lineman Jarran Reed (back) also has been cleared to play despite not practicing Thursday.
Starting linebacker Erst Jones (shoulder) and depth receivers Jake Bobo (concussion) and Dareke Young (hamstring) had previously returned to practice and were given the official green light to face the Steelers.
The Steelers will be without starting strong safety DeShon Elliott and starting outside cornerback Joey Porter Jr. for Sunday’s game at Acrisure Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
