PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – George Pickens is a big story, as is the quarterback situation. Part of the QB discussion is part of a broader issue with the Steelers right now, health.
Starting with the quarterbacks, Russell Wilson is expected to practice full for the first time on Wednesday and will be designated, at least early in the week, as the second-string quarterback. His situation is improving. That is a look at the good news.
Four key players are OUT against Las Vegas
· DL/Edge rusher DeMarvin Leal (neck)
· OLB Nick Herbig (hamstring)
· OLB Alex Highsmith (groin)
· RB Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle)
This leaves a pair of holes at multiple key positions. It starts with outside linebacker or edge rusher, Isaiahh Loudermilk will get some reps on the outside much like Leal was, Tomlin compared Loudermilk's athleticism to that of Leal. Other options currently include Jeremiah Moon, who just returned from Injured Reserve and played his first game with the Steelers. Last year he played eight for Baltimore with 12 tackles and two forced fumbles. Currently on the practice squad are outside linebacker Eku Leota and Ade Ogundeji. Tomlin said sometimes it's a fine line between All-Pro players and those on the practice squad.
Those doubtful for Sunday
· TE MyCole Pruitt (knee)-who was injured early in the Broncos game and hasn't played since
· RB Jaylen Warren (knee)-who first dealt with a hamstring injury earlier and has rushed only 14 times for 54 yards this season.
· S Damontae Kazee (ankle)-rolled his ankle pregame against Dallas, did play, but his ankle swelled after the game.
Steelers will likely have only Najee Harris as the main running back with Aaron Shampklin as the only running back on the active roster. Last week they elevated Jonathan Ward and those three combined to rush for 67 yards on 20 carries. Ward goes back to the practice squad with La'Mical Perine, both of those backs were with the team during training camp and off-season activities.
