The Pittsburgh Steelers have suffered a significant blow with the loss of two outside linebackers following Wednesday’s practice. Second-year player David Perales and veteran Kyron Johnson both sustained injuries during the team’s second padded practice session.
Head coach Mike Tomlin provided an update on their conditions, revealing that Perales is dealing with a knee injury, while Johnson had to be pulled out of practice due to hamstring tightness.
“David Perales has a knee injury that’s being evaluated. Kyron Johnson had a hamstring that got a little tight, and we had to pull him out. Some other bumps and bruises are associated with play. It’s that time of year. Unfortunately, it’s just a component of team development. We’ll deal with it. One man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity,” Tomlin said.
Perales joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent, and Johnson was added to the team last season on their practice squad before eventually playing special teams. Their absence now creates an opportunity for Jeremiah Moon to secure the OLB4 spot if Perales and Johnson miss extended time.
“[Jeremiah] Moon has been doing well and has really shown me some good stuff. He has really good length and uses his hands, so I’m kind of pleased with Moon. You don’t know a lot about him, we got him late last year, and so you’re finding out about him in pads, and I like what Moon is doing,” said defensive coordinator Teryl Austin.
If both Johnson and Perales are sidelined, the Steelers may need to add an outside linebacker before tomorrow’s practice. In the meantime, Julius Welschof and Moon are expected to see more snaps. Both players took advantage of their opportunities with solid performances throughout Wednesday’s practice. The Steelers will prioritize special teams capabilities over pass-rush ability for the final outside linebacker spot, and these chances will help players boost their chances of securing a place on the team.
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