Deborah Walker
Sep 10, 2023 - 06:05

2 Weeks After Acquisition, CB Desmond King Inactive for Steelers' Opener vs 49ers

Veteran cornerback Desmond King was inactive for the Pittsburgh Steelers' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.

In the season opener between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Francisco 49ers, veteran cornerback Desmond King did not make his debut for the Steelers. Despite being signed by the team on August 31, King was one of four players designated as inactive for the game. It seems that the eleven days between his signing and the game were not enough time for King to fully integrate into the team.

On the other hand, Larry Ogunjobi, who had been dealing with a foot injury and had not practiced fully for over three weeks, was not listed as inactive. Ogunjobi had been questionable leading up to the game, but he was able to play. This shows that his lack of practice did not hinder his ability to contribute.

Joining King on the inactive list were wide receiver Gunner Olszewski, offensive lineman Dylan Cook, and defensive lineman Armon Watts. Olszewski's absence can be attributed to Calvin Austin III winning the punt-return job, making Olszewski unnecessary as a sixth wide receiver. With Ogunjobi's availability, Watts became the odd man out on the deep defensive line unit.

In contrast, the 49ers had a healthy team for the game. Despite having two starters listed as questionable - tight end George Kittle and cornerback Charvarius Ward - both players were able to suit up and play. This meant that tight end Brayden Willis, running back Tyrion Davis-Price, guard Nick Zakelj, defensive tackle Kalia Davis, and linebackers Jalen Graham and Dee Winters were scratched from the game.

Interestingly, the "emergency quarterback" rule made a comeback for the 2023 season after a decade-long hiatus. This rule was reinstated after the 49ers experienced the loss of both their active quarterbacks to injury during last season's NFC championship game. On Sunday, the 49ers' No. 3 quarterback was Brandon Allen, while the Steelers had Mason Rudolph in that role.

The No. 3 quarterback is allowed to be in uniform but cannot enter the game unless both of the quarterbacks ahead of him on the depth chart are forced to leave the game due to injury or ejection. This rule adds an extra layer of preparation and strategy for teams in case of emergencies.