Maurkice Pouncey: Steelers Must Keep Rising Star Healthy

Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers got a big scare today when star center, Maurkice Pouncey and backup quarterback Byron Leftwich, suffered injuries in their preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.

Pouncey, who has become one of the leaders of the Steelers' offensive line injured his ankle during the first quarter of the Steelers week three preseason game. It is still unclear as to the extent of the injury, but the center did not take any x-rays.

Byron Leftwich later left the game with an arm injury, which according to early reports didn't look good.

For the Steelers, the injuries could not have come at a worse time, with Pittsburgh already battling injury concerns at several key positions on the team, namely the offensive line.

Earlier this preseason, fellow offensive linemen, Jonathan Scott and Marcus Gilbert both suffered mild injuries, leading the team to add Trai Essex in free agency.

However, even with the addition of Essex, the potential loss of Pouncey along with Scott and Gilbert could very well hurt the Steelers chances at getting back to the Superbowl.

Pittsburgh is a team that relies on a steady running game and defensive dominance for success, but without a solid offensive line, half of that formula is tough to live up to.

Pouncey is not only the anchor and best player on the offensive line, but also the captain and vocal leader of the unit, making his absence extremely detrimental to the team.

With a beat up offense and only a couple weeks left until the start of the NFL regular season, the Steelers need to hope that they can get healthy... and fast.

Most recent updates:

Flag

Props (3)