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As the Cleveland Browns face some list attrition due to COVID-19 concerns, Sunday’s opponent at FirstEnergy Stadium is voluntarily downsizing the list.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports the Steelers will not have three Eternal Pro Bowlers in their lineup in Week 17. Edge rusher TJ Watt, defensive lineman Cameron Heyward and center Maurkice Pouncey will join starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on the touch instead of playing against the Browns. All four are healthy enough to play but will stay away.
The absence of Watt, the leader of the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is a huge boon for the Browns’ offense. Cleveland QB Baker Mayfield has been asked several times about Watt in press conferences this week, and his reverence and respect for the All-Pro has been evident in his responses.
Cleveland must win the game to land a playoff spot. Pittsburgh has already locked the AFC North crown and can’t earn a bye in the wildcard round.
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