Aaron Rodgers, Steelers Hit With Major Injury Blow vs Ravens in Week 14

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost two key players from Aaron Rodgers’ offense and special teams early in their Week 14 game against the Baltimore Ravens on December 7 in Baltimore. Tight end Darnell Washington and linebacker Malik Harrison both exited with concussions before halftime, according to team updates.

The injuries came at a difficult moment for Pittsburgh. The team is fighting to stay in contention in the AFC North, and depth concerns have already grown due to earlier losses, including left tackle Broderick Jones and defensive standout Derrick Harmon.

Injury Breakdown and What It Means for Aaron Rodgers

Darnell Washington was ruled out in the first half after taking a hit that forced him into the concussion protocol. His departure immediately altered the Steelers’ offensive structure. Washington has been a major supporting piece for Aaron Rodgers, especially in red zone sets due to his 6-foot-7 frame and blocking ability. He has been involved in several key formations designed to stabilize the passing attack.

Malik Harrison also exited with a concussion, removing one of the Steelers’ rotational defenders and special teams contributors. His absence created further challenges for a defense already missing Derrick Harmon, who has not returned from injury.

The loss of Washington is the more direct setback for Rodgers. He has leaned on the tight end group throughout the season. While Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith remain available, Washington’s size and physicality have been crucial for certain matchups. The offense has already struggled to stay consistent, and another personnel setback adds pressure heading into Week 15.

The Steelers face the Miami Dolphins next on December 15 in a Monday Night Football showdown that carries major playoff implications. Pittsburgh enters the week needing stability, but the concussion protocol timeline for both Washington and Harrison remains uncertain. As reported by several outlets including Associated Press and ESPN reports, concussions often vary in recovery time, making next week’s availability unclear.

What This Means for Pittsburgh Moving Forward

The Steelers must adjust their offensive packages quickly. Freiermuth may see more snaps in power sets, while Smith could take on a larger role in motion and short-yardage designs. If Washington misses additional time, Pittsburgh will likely use heavier receiver rotation to compensate for lost blocking support.

On defense, Harrison’s absence adds more load on the inside linebacker unit. The team has relied on rotational depth all season, and another injury forces further adjustments ahead of facing Miami’s high-tempo offense led by Tua Tagovailoa.

The broader concern is timing. Pittsburgh’s early-season momentum has slowed due to injuries across multiple phases, and the Ravens matchup added two more issues at a critical point in the playoff race. Aaron Rodgers will once again need to adapt as the offense searches for consistency in December.

The Steelers now turn their attention to recovery timelines and roster reshuffling, hoping to stabilize key positions before Monday Night Football. Aaron Rodgers and the offense will be under increased pressure as the postseason picture tightens.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Darnell Washington vs the Ravens?

Washington suffered a concussion in the first half and was ruled out. He entered the league’s protocol immediately.

Q2: How does Washington’s injury affect Aaron Rodgers?

Rodgers loses a major blocking and red zone weapon. Washington’s size creates matchups that backup tight ends may not replicate.

Q3: Will Malik Harrison play in Week 15?

The timeline is unclear. His status depends on concussion protocol progress and evaluations through the week.

Q4: Who replaces Darnell Washington if he misses more time?

Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith will take on expanded roles. The team may also adjust formations to reduce tight end usage.

Q5: When do the Steelers play next?

Pittsburgh hosts the Miami Dolphins on December 15 in a Monday Night Football matchup.