Steelers activate Heyward off IR ahead of TNF vs. Titans

The Pittsburgh Steelers activated defensive lineman Cameron Heyward off injured reserve ahead of their Thursday night matchup against the Tennessee Titans, the team announced Wednesday.

Heyward had been sidelined since suffering a groin injury in the season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

The veteran returned to practice last week, though he didn't play in last Sunday's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Heyward was a full participant in Tuesday's and Wednesday's sessions this week and didn't have an injury designation for the Titans matchup.

The Steelers have missed their defensive captain in the trenches. The unit ranks 30th in total yardage allowed and 27th against the run.

The 34-year-old has made six straight Pro Bowls and registered eight or more sacks in five of his last six campaigns. He put up 10.5 sacks and 14 tackles for a loss last season.

Pittsburgh will also have quarterback Kenny Pickett for Thursday night's contest despite the quarterback nursing a rib injury. However, star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is out due to a hamstring ailment.

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