Steelers Catch Huge Break Before Dublin Showdown — Vikings Lose Pro Bowl Star
Dublin, Ireland – September 26, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers received a major boost ahead of their highly anticipated Week 4 showdown overseas. Minnesota will be without one of its most disruptive defensive stars, a development that could tilt momentum toward the black and gold.
Linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, a Pro Bowl selection in 2024, has been ruled out with a neck injury. The veteran playmaker was coming off a scorching start to the year, highlighted by two sacks on just eight snaps in last week’s loss. His absence leaves a glaring hole in the Vikings’ pass rush.
Minnesota’s defense leaned heavily on Van Ginkel’s versatility last season, when he racked up 79 tackles, 11.5 sacks, two interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns. Without him, coordinator Brian Flores will need to dig deep into the rotation and rely on unproven talent.
The bad news for the Vikings doesn’t stop there. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy and guard Donovan Jackson are also sidelined, stripping away depth at two critical positions. It’s a tough blow for a team looking to make a statement on the international stage.
For Pittsburgh, the timing couldn’t be better. The offensive line has battled inconsistency, and rookie right tackle Troy Fautanu now faces a much less daunting challenge with Van Ginkel sidelined. Coaches believe this could open up opportunities to establish rhythm in both the run and pass game.
Head coach Mike Tomlin emphasized respect for Minnesota’s depth but acknowledged the reality. “You never root for injuries, but you prepare for matchups. Van Ginkel’s an elite player, and without him, the dynamic changes. We have to capitalize,”
Fans traveling to Dublin are expecting a physical clash, but the loss of Minnesota’s defensive anchor significantly alters the outlook. Pittsburgh now has a chance to exploit mismatches that simply wouldn’t have existed otherwise.
As kickoff approaches, one thing is clear: the Steelers just caught a huge break, and the challenge is on them to turn it into a statement win in front of an international audience.
Steelers Nation Mourns Beloved Legend Craig Wolfley’s Tragic Passing at 66
Pittsburgh, PA – September 14, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of its most beloved voices and figures. Craig Wolfley, former offensive lineman turned broadcaster, passed away on
Wolfley wore the black and gold with pride throughout the 1980s, anchoring the offensive line from 1980 to 1989 before finishing his career with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his grit, toughness, and unwavering loyalty, he embodied everything that Steelers football has long stood for.
But his impact extended far beyond the playing field. After hanging up his cleats, Wolfley became a cherished voice of the Steelers, first as a sideline reporter and later stepping into the radio booth. In 2021, following the passing of his close friend and teammate Tunch Ilkin, Wolfley took over as the team’s color commentator, where his humor, wisdom, and heartfelt passion made him an irreplaceable part of Steelers Nation.
Steelers President Art Rooney II released a statement honoring Wolfley: “Craig was more than just a player and broadcaster — he was family. His love for the game, his devotion to Pittsburgh, and his larger-than-life personality touched everyone who had the privilege to know him.”
Fans across the country remember Wolfley not only for his blocking skills in the trenches but also for the warmth and energy he brought into every broadcast. His voice became the soundtrack of Sunday afternoons, a trusted companion for generations of Steelers faithful.
The delay in announcing his passing reflects the family’s wish to grieve privately before sharing their sorrow with the world. Today, Steelers Nation joins them in mourning, united in gratitude for a man whose influence stretched far beyond the gridiron.
Rest in peace, Craig Wolfley (1958–2025).
