Maurkice Pouncey Placed on COVID-19 List by Steelers Ahead of Ravens Game

Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey has been placed on the NFL's COVID-19/reserve list, the team announced Wednesday. 

The team also announced that "running back Wendell Smallwood and offensive lineman Anthony Coyle were elevated from the practice squad to the active/inactive roster as COVID-19 replacements."

Pouncey, 31, is an eight-time Pro Bowler and a two-time first-team All-Pro selection. He remains one of the best centers in the NFL and is one of the team's captains. His absence will be felt for the Steelers in their unconventional midweek afternoon matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. 

Granted, Baltimore's coronavirus outbreak has left them beyond shorthanded, with quarterback Lamar Jackson leading a list of key Ravens who are missing the game. The contest was originally scheduled for Thanksgiving evening before being postponed three separate times until the Wednesday afternoon kickoff was settled upon. 

The NFL defended the decision to hold the game despite the postponements and players missing out.

"We can say with confidence that there is no active infection among the players, coaches and staff on the Ravens sideline today," NFL chief medical officer Dr. Allen Sills told reporters.

"Health and medical decisions have and always will take precedence over competitive considerations and business interest," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell added, perhaps referencing the Denver Broncos being forced to play Sunday despite all three of their quarterbacks being placed on the COVID-19/reserve list, leaving practice squad receiver Kendall Hinton to play the position.