The Pittsburgh Steelers are in control of the AFC North with just four weeks remaining in the regular-season.
However, while they do still hold a two game lead, they're about to enter what many consider to be their toughest stretch of the season, and they may have to do it without Russell Wilson's top weapon.
Star receiver George Pickens missed last week's game against the Cincinnati Bengals with a hamstring injury, which he sustained in practice last Thursday, according to Mike Tomlin.
Although the team still had optimism that Pickens would take the field on Sunday, they decided to rule him out after he tested the injury pregame. Now, according to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac, Pickens' injury may be more severe than the team initially realized.
Dulac reported that an MRI that Pickens received after the game showed a "more significant" injury that could sideline him past just this week.
"What’s more, with three games in 11 days, it is possible Pickens could have a difficult time being ready to return for the Baltimore Ravens on Dec. 21 and Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day, as well," said Dulac.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will have the chance to clinch a playoff spot on Sunday with a win against the Philadelphia Eagles, but without Pickens, Pittsburgh's offense will be missing a huge piece against an extremely formidable defense. If the Steelers drop their next two games against the Eagles and the Ravens, it will leave the AFC North open for Baltimore with just two more weeks remaining.
