The Pittsburgh Steelers are feeling great after their huge win in Week 14. Pittsburgh beat Baltimore 27-22 in a game that could have huge ramifications for the AFC playoff picture. But that excitement turned to concern for one Steelers player who was sent to the hospital after the game.
Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf stayed overnight in Baltimore after visiting a local hospital following Sunday's game, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Metcalf was experiencing stomach pains on the team flight back to Pittsburgh. Out of an abundance of caution, Steelers medical personnel sent him to a nearby hospital.
The star wide receiver took a hard shot during Sunday's game against the Ravens. The goal of his hospital visit was to rule out any significant internal injuries.
Rapoport noted that it is too early to tell Metcalf's status for Pittsburgh's next game. But since they play on Monday Night Football, Metcalf will have some extra time to get healthy.
He spent the night in a Baltimore hotel and will fly back to Pittsburgh on Monday.
Steelers improve playoff odds after big win over Ravens
The Steelers needed Metcalf to get past the Ravens on Sunday.
Pittsburgh leaned on its passing game in Week 14, and Metcalf was the biggest contributor. He led the team with seven receptions for 148 receiving yards. That was crucial, especially in a game where the Steelers only mustered 34 rushing yards as a team.
Now the Steelers are 7-6 and sitting atop the AFC North division standings. Their playoff chances are now quite strong after beating their division rival.
Pittsburgh has a 70% chance to make the playoffs after Week 14, per The Athletic's playoff projections. They are projected to finish the regular season 9-8 and win the AFC North.
Pittsburgh faces Baltimore once again in Week 18. If they win that game, they'll have a head-to-head tiebreaker and will almost certainly win the division. That is their best path to the playoffs in a crowded AFC.
But until then, the Steelers simply need to keep winning games.
Next up for the Steelers is a Week 15 matchup against the Dolphins on Monday Night Football.
