Calvin Austin III Injury Update: Will Steelers WR Play vs. Browns?

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III is facing an uphill battle to be ready for Sunday’s clash against the Cleveland Browns. Austin, who injured his shoulder in the team’s last game against the Minnesota Vikings, remains limited in practice despite the benefit of a bye week to recover.

Head coach Mike Tomlin offered a cautiously optimistic update earlier this week, saying Austin is “working hard on his rehab” and “has a chance” to return in Week 6. However, his absence from both Wednesday and Thursday’s practices raises doubts about his availability unless he can participate fully in Friday’s session.

Calvin Austin III Injury Status Ahead of Week 6

The Steelers desperately want their explosive slot receiver back on the field, but Austin’s shoulder injury is proving stubborn. According to reports from Steelers Wire, the 25-year-old continues to work through his rehab program and remains a game-time decision heading into Sunday.

Austin suffered the injury during the second half of Pittsburgh’s loss to the Vikings, exiting after an awkward landing on his shoulder. Since then, he has been sidelined from practice and focused on recovery. While the bye week provided extra time, he has yet to log a full practice — typically a strong indicator of whether a player will be active on game day.

“He’s doing everything he can,” Tomlin told reporters Tuesday. “We’ll see how the week unfolds. If he can practice Friday, that’ll tell us a lot.”

If Austin cannot go, it would be a significant blow to the Steelers’ passing attack. He’s been one of Aaron Rodgers’ most reliable targets this season, especially on quick slants and deep crossing routes that stretch opposing defenses. Without him, the offense struggled to generate separation against Minnesota, with DK Metcalf being Rodgers’ only trusted option in the passing game.

Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is reportedly preparing contingency plans in case Austin is ruled out. Rookie Roman Wilson could see an expanded role in the slot, and the Steelers may lean more heavily on their trio of tight ends to create mismatches in the middle of the field. However, neither option fully replicates Austin’s speed and versatility.

Impact on Steelers vs. Browns Showdown

The potential absence of Calvin Austin III looms large over Sunday’s AFC North matchup. The Browns boast one of the NFL’s stingiest pass defenses, anchored by a fierce pass rush and lockdown secondary. Pittsburgh will need every weapon available to keep pace offensively — and Austin’s ability to create yards after the catch could be a difference-maker.

Moreover, the Steelers’ passing game has been inconsistent this season, ranking in the bottom half of the league in explosive plays. Losing Austin would put even more pressure on Rodgers and Metcalf to carry the offense and could force Smith to lean more on the ground game.

Still, if Austin is able to practice Friday and suit up Sunday, it would provide a significant boost to Pittsburgh’s offensive game plan. His speed on intermediate routes and chemistry with Rodgers could be critical against a Browns defense that thrives on disrupting timing.

As of now, Calvin Austin III’s Week 6 status remains uncertain. Friday’s practice will likely determine whether the Steelers’ dynamic receiver can suit up against the Browns or if Pittsburgh will have to adjust without him.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Calvin Austin III’s current injury?

Calvin Austin III is dealing with a shoulder injury sustained against the Vikings. He remains day-to-day and is working through rehab.

Q2: Did Calvin Austin practice this week?

No, he missed both Wednesday and Thursday’s sessions. His participation in Friday’s practice will be crucial to determining his availability.

Q3: Will Calvin Austin play against the Browns?

It’s uncertain. Mike Tomlin said he “has a chance,” but missing multiple practices lowers the odds unless he returns Friday.

Q4: Who will replace Calvin Austin if he’s out?

Rookie Roman Wilson could see more snaps, and the Steelers might use more tight-end sets to compensate for his absence.

Q5: How important is Austin to the Steelers’ offense?

He’s one of the team’s top playmakers, adding speed and versatility. His absence would significantly impact the passing game.