The Steelers got their captain back, and the timing couldn't have been better.Cam Heyward was activated off of injured reserve on Wednesday after missing seven weeks with a groin injury that required surgery, paving the way for his return to the lineup Thursday night against Derrick Henry and the run-heavy Tennessee Titans.The Steelers did not place a game designation on Heyward, but he will play against the Titans. He was a full participant at practice on Tuesday and Wednesday.Heyward battled a core muscle injury throughout training camp, as he was a limited participant throughout the summer. He managed only a handful of snaps in the season opener against the 49ers before getting shut down.The original timeline for Heyward's return was expected to be nearly three months or around Thanksgiving.Heyward's return is significant for a struggling run defense that got weaker this week with the injury to Minkah Fitzpatrick. The Steelers cobbled together a front line of youth and inexperience in Heyward's absence, and it was noticeable.Through seven games, they rank sixth-worst in the league in yards per carry allowed (4.7). They are 27th overall in run defense. Heyward should instantly improve that with his return.