The Pittsburgh Steelers are finally looking up. With another victory after hammering down the Minnesota Vikings, the team is sitting at 3-1 on the scoreboard. Kenneth Gainwell ran for 99 yards and had two touchdowns. Even Rodgers connected with DK Metcalf on an exceptional 80-yard touchdown. But one incident threatens to break the momentum of the side. 

The game was in the fourth quarter when Calvin Austin caught a pass and took a hit. He seemed to be injured and soon left the game. At that time, the severity of the injury was not known, but the injury itself was classified as a shoulder injury. Later, Steelers Radio network host, Gerry Dulac, tweeted on X that Austin will miss several weeks due to his shoulder injury. This injury opened the door for a veteran WR on their roster. 

Veteran WR Scotty Miller has stepped up as the backup punt returner for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Miller confirmed his role today while speaking to reporters. There are high chances that Miller will replace the injured Austin. The Steelers have now vacancies for both receiver and punt returner, but Miller has clearly stated that he is in there as the Steelers’ punt returner as long as Austin is out. 

It’s worth noticing that the Steelers have a bye in week 5, and this will give Austin enough time to recover. Although there are no updates regarding his recovery timeline, the bye week will surely be a positive for both Austin and the team. The Steelers will also get enough time to analyze their options and make the right move. 

Although Miller is up for the role, he didn’t miss to show his concern for Austin. He said, “First off, I hope Calvin is good and doesn’t have to miss time,” He also talked about his role. “But I feel comfortable wherever I need to play if that’s needed,” Miller said. This will not be the first time Miller will be taking up the role in Austin’s absence. During training camp, when Austin suffered an oblique strain, he missed time with the team. It was Miller who got the opportunity and played with the first team during training camp.

But things are different now, and it’s not just about taking up the role; it’s about the Steelers’ current punt return situation as well. 

Both Miller and the Steelers have a doubtful punt return 

The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t ranking well in terms of punt return this season. The two returns by Austin are the team’s first two returns of this season. The first return resulted in negative yards, but the second return yielded 12. The Steelers’ two returns are the fewest this season and are matched by the Philadelphia Eagles’ pair of returns. What’s more concerning? Miller’s status as a punt returner. 

Miller’s resume as a punt returner isn’t that impressive. In his seven seasons in the NFL, Miller has just a single career return. And that was way back in 2023 when he had a short stint with the Atlanta Falcons. Even in the preseason, Miller didn’t handle any returns. But despite what the stats say, Miller looks all pumped up for the role and is ready to leave an impact. 

Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns could mark Calvin Austin’s return from injury, or become Scotty Miller’s opportunity to show he belongs in the spotlight.