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Steelers schedule news for Week 4 includes a major defensive boost and another challenge for Pittsburgh’s running game. Jalen Ramsey is active for Thursday night’s matchup with the Cleveland Browns, while running back Rico Dowdle will miss his second consecutive game.
The Steelers and Browns meet on October 1, 2026, at Huntington Bank Stadium. Ramsey had been listed as a question mark after being limited in practice throughout the week with a wrist injury. The veteran cornerback previously acknowledged that he is dealing with a broken wrist, making his availability one of the most important developments on the Steelers schedule.
Breaking Steelers Schedule Update: Ramsey Is Active
Ramsey expressed uncertainty earlier in the week when asked whether he expected to play. He said he would try, but needed to determine whether he could protect the injured wrist and still perform at a high level.
“It’s going to be about seeing if I’m able to protect it and also still be myself in a good capacity where I feel like if I go out there, I won’t be letting any of my teammates down,” Ramsey said.
His activation gives Pittsburgh an experienced presence in the secondary against Cleveland. However, Ramsey’s return does not necessarily mean the Steelers will reduce the role of rookie cornerback Daylen Everette.
Daylen Everette Earns a Bigger Role
Everette saw his defensive workload rise significantly during the Steelers’ Week 3 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He played 46% of the defensive snaps, up from 2% in Week 1 and 15% in Week 2.
Coach Mike McCarthy said Everette’s increased role is a result of his consistent work and strong practice performances. Defensive coordinator Patrick Grahm also praised the rookie’s speed, physicality and preparation.
Everette has reportedly worked closely with fellow rookie Robert Spears-Jennings to review calls and prepare for opportunities. Coaches have gained confidence in him through his execution during practice, including interceptions in competitive two-minute drills during consecutive weeks.
“If you’re at the game, you’re live to play,” Grahm said, emphasizing that active players must be ready when their opportunity arrives.
The Steelers’ secondary now features a blend of veteran experience and young talent. Ramsey’s presence could stabilize the unit, while Everette’s continued involvement may provide Pittsburgh with additional speed and flexibility on defense.
Rico Dowdle Out as Jaylen Warren Takes Charge
Dowdle is inactive for the second straight week, leaving Jaylen Warren in line to handle much of the backfield responsibility. Warren delivered one of his strongest performances of the season against Cincinnati, rushing 17 times for 127 yards and adding three receptions for 31 yards.
Warren also opened that game with a 30-yard reception from quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He appeared to break an 87-yard run later in the contest, but the play was nullified by a holding penalty.
Rodgers praised Warren’s toughness, quickness and ability to run between the tackles. He also called Warren one of the toughest players he has played with and highlighted the running back’s energy and commitment to his teammates.
With Dowdle unavailable, Pittsburgh will again rely on Warren to provide explosive plays and dependable production. His workload could be especially important as the Steelers look to control the tempo on Thursday night.
Steelers Make Additional Roster Moves
Pittsburgh also made two roster adjustments before the Browns game. Defensive back Doneiko Slaughter was signed from the practice squad to the active roster. Running back Lew Nichols was elevated to the Active/Inactive Roster for the game and will return to the practice squad afterward.
Slaughter has previously been elevated for games against the Atlanta Falcons, New England Patriots and Bengals. He originally joined the Steelers on a Reserve/Future contract after the 2025 season after signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent.
Nichols spent the 2025 season on Pittsburgh’s practice squad and was elevated for the Week 3 matchup with Cincinnati. He has also appeared on special teams in the past, including during the Steelers’ Week 9 game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Complete Week 4 Inactives
The Steelers’ inactive list features six players:
- RB Rico Dowdle
- QB Drew Allar
- QB Will Howard, third quarterback
- RB Eli Heidenreich
- DL Kevin Jobity Jr.
- DE Gabriel Rubio
Cleveland’s inactives are quarterback Taylen Green, wide receiver Tylan Wallace, linebacker Justin Jefferson, center Elgton Jenkins and guard Teven Jenkins.
For fans tracking the Steelers schedule, the Week 4 status report sets up several key storylines: Ramsey’s return, Everette’s expanding role and Warren’s continued importance in the backfield. The final impact will unfold when Pittsburgh and Cleveland meet Thursday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is inactive for the Steelers in Week 4?
Rico Dowdle, Drew Allar, Will Howard, Eli Heidenreich, Kevin Jobity Jr. and Gabriel Rubio are inactive for Pittsburgh.
Is Jalen Ramsey playing against the Browns?
Yes. Jalen Ramsey is active after being limited during the week with a broken wrist.
Who will lead the Steelers’ backfield?
Jaylen Warren is expected to carry the primary workload with Rico Dowdle inactive for the second consecutive game.
Will Daylen Everette continue to play significant snaps?
Everette is expected to remain involved after playing 46% of Pittsburgh’s defensive snaps in Week 3.
What roster moves did Pittsburgh make?
The Steelers signed Doneiko Slaughter to the active roster and elevated Lew Nichols for Thursday night’s game.
