Steelers news: Final Rico Dowdle, DeShon Elliott Week 7 injury statuses vs. Saints in Paris appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Pittsburgh Steelers received a double injury boost ahead of Sunday's Week 7 matchup against the New Orleans Saints in Paris. Running back Rico Dowdle and safety DeShon Elliott are both active for the historic international game. Pittsburgh's injury concerns ease before kickoff. The Steelers prepared for their first regular-season game in France, following disruptions to planned fan events in Paris.
According to Steelers reporter Ray Fittipaldo, both Dowdle and Elliott will play against the New Orleans Saints.
Dowdle had been listed as questionable because of a knee injury. His availability gives Pittsburgh another backfield option alongside Jaylen Warren against a Saints defense that has struggled to contain opposing rushing attacks.
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Elliott's return is particularly significant after the veteran safety missed Pittsburgh's first six games while recovering from a serious knee injury sustained last season.
The Steelers activated Elliott from injured reserve Saturday, clearing the way for his first appearance of the 2026 campaign.
However, Pittsburgh will still be without wide receiver Ben Skowronek and cornerback Brandin Echols. They were ruled out because of calf and hamstring injuries, respectively.
The Steelers enter Sunday's contest with a 4-2 record, while the Saints stand at 2-4.
Pittsburgh previously faced additional uncertainty surrounding its Paris preparations, but the matchup remains scheduled to proceed.
Kickoff is set for 9:30 a.m. ET at Stade de France, with both returning players available as Pittsburgh pursues its fifth victory of the season.
Having both players available gives Pittsburgh greater flexibility with its game plan, particularly in managing offensive rotations and defensive assignments.
Related: NFL news: Paris protests force NFL House closure just 24 hours before Steelers-Saints game
Related: Steelers' Aaron Rodgers voices displeasure with late travel for international games

