PITTSBURGH -- The hope is that Antonio Brown returns for the playoffs, but coming back from a partial calf tear in three weeks or less is an arduous task, even for a tough dude such as Brown.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will need the supporting cast of receivers to elevate their play as they did against the New England Patriots on Sunday, when Ben Roethlisberger nearly recorded a 300-yard game without his prolific top target.
“I thought it was awesome. I thought a lot of guys did some good things,” Roethlisberger said. “But that’s what we expect. How awesome at the end with JuJu [Smith-Schuster], too? He gave us a chance down there. Guys just stepping up and doing great things. I am proud of that.”
Smith-Schuster has shown a flair for the big play and ranks third in rookie receiving yardage (699) behind Cooper Kupp and Evan Engram despite missing two games. Consider him a co-No. 1 for now.
The other co-No. 1 is Martavis Bryant, who at the core of his early-season trade request wanted to play for a team that would feature him more prominently. Entering Sunday, Bryant hadn't recorded a 50-plus-yard game since Week 2 against Minnesota.
Then he exploded in his first career matchup against New England, torching Stephon Gilmore for a diving 39-yard catch down the sideline and a one-handed 4-yard touchdown that looked so effortless.
The two plays reminded why the Steelers said "Are you crazy?" regarding any trade inquiries. Bryant's six catches for 59 yards aren't huge numbers, but he made crucial catches, providing hope that he will capitalize on increased targets. (He has averaged seven targets per game over the past four weeks.)
Two months ago, Bryant said on Instagram that Smith-Schuster is "nowhere near" better than he is. Now the two are re-enacting Smith-Schuster's hit on Vontaze Burfict as a touchdown celebration after a Bryant score.
Who said the two couldn't coexist? Without Brown, they must.
On the receiver front, don't be surprised if the Steelers give all-world practice player Justin Hunter a look on the active list. He's been quiet this year, but the talent for a big play is there.
Potentially getting tight end Vance McDonald (shoulder) back will allow the Steelers to run two-tight-end sets to help spring Le'Veon Bell and give Roethlisberger safety valves over the middle.