Mason McCormick's status for Saturday's playoff game remains uncertain

Pittsburgh Steelers right guard Mason McCormick (24) is currently listed as questionable for the upcoming Wild Card game against the Baltimore Ravens, as reported by head coach Mike Tomlin.

McCormick sustained a hand fracture during the team's season-ending defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Backup guard Spencer Anderson stepped in for McCormick and completed the game. However, Tomlin remains optimistic about McCormick's potential return.

"He will be fitted for a cast and/or a brace, and we will assess his functionality," Tomlin stated. "His level of participation and the quality of that participation will serve as indicators of his possible availability as we move forward."

McCormick was selected by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and has started in 14 of the 17 games this season. The rookie concluded the regular season with a PFF grade of 57.7 (ranking 85th out of 135), a pass-blocking grade of 63.2 (62nd), and a run-blocking grade of 53.7 (108th).

Throughout the season, McCormick allowed two sacks, two quarterback hits, and 21 pressures over 936 snaps.

Additionally, Tomlin noted that defensive back Donte Jackson may also be available for Saturday's game, despite dealing with a persistent back injury.

"He feels good this morning, but we will monitor him throughout the week to evaluate his participation and its implications for his potential inclusion," Tomlin remarked.

Jackson is a seven-year veteran who spent his first six seasons with the Carolina Panthers after being selected 55th overall in the 2018 draft. He has started all 15 games he has played for the Steelers, finishing the regular season with five interceptions, eight pass deflections, and 38 tackles.