PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers had absolutely nothing going for them during the first half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What was supposed to be a statement game for the team's offense and a chance to get their first road victory quickly turned into a nightmare through the first two quarters.

The rough start continued for the Steelers, as an injury to a key defender brought even more negativity to the team.

As the Buccaneers punted to end their final offensive drive of the first half, Tampa Bay's special teams had a free runner at Steelers returner Kaden Wetjen. It wasn't due to lack of coverage, however, it was because cornerback and jammer on the punt return team, Brandin Echols, was injured during the play. As the action came to a close, Echols was seen limping off the field.

What This Means for Steelers

The Steelers had a beat up secondary entering Week 6, and this injury to Echols is only more concerning. The defense received a boost with the return of veteran Jamel Dean, but Echols was a key part of the depth in Pittsburgh.

Without Echols, the defense will need even more from rookie Daylen Everette.