Steelers Fall to Bengals in Week 18 as Najee Harris Avoids Serious Injury
The Pittsburgh Steelers closed out their regular season with a hard-fought but disappointing 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday Night Football in Week 18. While the game kept fans on the edge of their seats, it also provided a scare when star running back Najee Harris exited in the second half due to a head injury.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Harris was being evaluated for a potential head injury and was initially deemed questionable to return. Fortunately for the Steelers, Harris made his way back onto the field not long after, appearing to have avoided any serious damage.
Despite his brief absence, Harris made an impact, finishing with 12 carries for 36 yards and a touchdown, alongside four receptions for 20 yards. However, his contributions weren’t enough to lift Pittsburgh to victory. The loss handed the Bengals a lifeline in their playoff hunt, keeping their postseason hopes alive after a tumultuous start to the season.
Bengals’ Playoff Aspirations Stay Alive
The Bengals, who began their 2024 campaign with a dismal 4-8 record, have clawed their way back into contention. The win against Pittsburgh was a critical step, but their playoff fate now hinges on Sunday’s outcomes. Cincinnati needs both the Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos to lose their respective matchups to secure a postseason berth.
If the stars align for the Bengals, Joe Burrow could find himself leading one of the most improbable playoff runs in recent NFL history. Burrow’s MVP candidacy would also gain traction, as he’s been the linchpin for a Bengals team that refused to fold under pressure.
Steelers’ Season Ends in Disappointment
For Pittsburgh, the loss adds fuel to an already simmering frustration among the fanbase. Despite a roster loaded with potential and moments of brilliance throughout the season, the Steelers couldn’t put together a complete performance when it mattered most.
Head coach Mike Tomlin, a perennial fan favorite, now faces mounting pressure to address the team’s shortcomings. Calls for a shake-up in leadership have grown louder, with fans demanding changes to ensure a more consistent and competitive showing in 2025.
Looking Ahead
While the Steelers head into the offseason with lingering questions, the Bengals still have hope. The Sunday games will determine whether Cincinnati extends its season or shifts focus to next year. Either way, the AFC playoff race has proven to be as unpredictable as ever, and Week 18 delivered drama befitting of a thrilling conclusion.
As for Najee Harris, his return to the field is a silver lining for the Steelers, signaling that one of their cornerstone players should be ready to go for the next chapter of Pittsburgh football.
