A Steelers Depot daily segment. A quick hit of some Pittsburgh Steelers-related stories that may not require a complete article but nuggets worth mentioning and passing on to you guys.
Your Depot After Dark for Nov. 21.
HOGE ON STEELERS-BEARS
The Steelers play the Chicago Bears Sunday, although it’s unclear who their quarterback will be. They don’t have a great history of playing in Chicago, either. The Steelers haven’t won there since 1995. Former NFL running back Merril Hoge played for both the Steelers and Bears, and he reflected on playing for them recently.
Hoge took to Twitter to talk about his experience leaving the Steelers for the Bears. He started his career in Pittsburgh, playing there from 1987-1993. Then, he left for Chicago in 1994. He only spent one season there before retiring. However, as he states, both places were impactful on his life.
In honor of this weekend’s Bears vs. Steelers game, I’ve been reflecting on my time with both teams.
Leaving the Steelers wasn’t easy—they were family. But joining the Bears taught me that growth often comes through change.
I’ll never forget Dan Rooney’s words when I left: “If… pic.twitter.com/udFsL5iAcR
— Merril Hoge (@merrilhoge) November 21, 2025
HIGHSMITH COOKING
Alex Highsmith has had an up-and-down season. He’s got 5.5 sacks, and he’s been a difference maker at times. However, injuries have slowed him down. He’s missed three games this season. That includes missing last week with a pec injury. While Highsmith has been battling an injury — he is doubtful to play Sunday in Chicago — that hasn’t stopped him from helping out in the community.
Steelers Community Relations shared on Twitter that Highsmith recently visited YouthPlaces. There, he did a cooking demonstration and etiquette class for young people. It’s a nice display of leadership from Highsmith.
BURROW’S STATUS
The Steelers finished their season series against the Cincinnati Bengals last week. They split, losing the first game and winning the second one. However, the Bengals’ season isn’t over yet. They could still make the playoffs. Joe Burrow’s participation has ramped up recently, too. He’s practiced in full multiple times this week.
However, it’s still unclear if Burrow will suit up Sunday. ESPN’s Adam Schefter relayed that the quarterback is questionable for the Bengals’ upcoming game against the New England Patriots. They’ll already be without Ja’Marr Chase due to a suspension. The Bengals will need Chase to come back strong if they want to hold on to their playoff hopes. Otherwise, there might not be a point in bringing Burrow back at all this season.
Bengals say quarterback Joe Burrow is questionable for Sunday’s game vs. the Patriots.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 21, 2025
Recommended for you