Jalen Milroe, a Katy native and former Alabama quarterback, is gearing up for the NFL after four challenging seasons in the SEC. He cites this experience as critical preparation for the professional level. Milroe faced adversity, including being a backup to Bryce Young, struggling early in his starting role, and adapting to three offensive coordinators in four years. Despite setbacks, such as a reduced passing efficiency in his final season, Milroe excelled as a runner, rushing for over 700 yards. His competitive spirit and exposure to various defensive schemes have helped him develop a strong football IQ, which he believes will serve him well in the NFL.

Roman Wilson's rookie season with the Pittsburgh Steelers was marred by injuries, limiting his opportunities to showcase his skills. However, his former teammate Will Johnson, a top cornerback prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft, believes Wilson can bounce back in 2025. Johnson praised Wilson's speed and agility, noting their competitive practice sessions at Michigan, where Wilson excelled during their national championship run in 2023.

After being selected in the third round of the 2024 draft, Wilson faced an ankle injury that sidelined him during the preseason. Although he returned by Week 3, he played sparingly and ended up on the reserve/injured list due to a hamstring injury. With the Steelers' receiving corps lacking depth beyond standout George Pickens, Wilson's potential for a breakout sophomore season remains high.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' season concluded with a 28-14 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC wild-card round, marking a disappointing sixth consecutive playoff loss. A clear issue emerged: head coach Mike Tomlin's apparent disconnect with the team during a season that started with promise. Players like linebacker Patrick Queen and receiver George Pickens voiced concerns about complacency and a lack of optimism, respectively, indicating deeper cultural issues within the organization.

Despite a strong start in the season, the Steelers lacked a clear identity, especially after switching quarterbacks. The defensive unit, which had been the most expensive in the league, faltered significantly down the stretch, allowing a staggering 299 rushing yards in the playoff game. Tomlin's coaching decisions are under scrutiny, particularly regarding the team's failure to adapt during critical moments.

The NFL's final week of the regular season brings high stakes for some teams while others focus on their off-season plans. Injuries are a common theme as players like Jalen Hurts and Brock Purdy are sidelined, impacting playoff aspirations. The Cincinnati Bengals face the Pittsburgh Steelers with key offensive players out, putting pressure on Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase.

The Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons matchup sees the Panthers missing several key players. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders look to secure a playoff spot against the Dallas Cowboys, who have minimal injuries. As teams prepare for their season finales, the injury reports vary, with playoff implications on the line for many.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic about fielding a fully healthy roster as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18. This includes the anticipated return of starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who missed the previous game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a knee injury sustained in Week 16. Porter's return is crucial as the Steelers will confront one of the NFL's top receiving duos, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who recently excelled in a game against the Denver Broncos, combining for 20 receptions, 233 yards, and three touchdowns.

Alongside Porter, backup quarterback Justin Fields is also back in action after being sidelined with an abdominal issue. The Steelers have also activated the practice windows for rookie receiver Roman Wilson, who has been on injured reserve since late October due to a hamstring issue, and inside linebacker Cole Holcomb, who is recovering from a knee injury. Tomlin is eager to leverage a healthier lineup to break their three-game losing streak and secure their first playoff victory since 2016.

While the Steelers have already clinched a playoff spot, they still have significant stakes in the upcoming match. A victory against the Bengals, coupled with a Baltimore Ravens loss to the Cleveland Browns, would grant the Steelers the AFC North title and a home game in the wild-card round. Conversely, a win alone would ensure a fifth seed in the playoffs, setting up a wild-card matchup against the Houston Texans. Tomlin emphasized the importance of momentum heading into the playoffs, expressing his desire to erase the negative feelings from recent performances with a strong showing at Acrisure Stadium.