PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Corner Joey Porter, Junior said it himself on Monday that he would return and he’s been cleared to play against the Browns Sunday. Also returning, tailback Jaylen Warren, who missed the Vikings game at the last minute and outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, who has missed a couple games with the high ankle sprain.
Corner Jalen Ramsey, after going through a full practice, is questionable and receiver Calvin Austin, who didn’t practice all week, is out.
With Highsmith returning, look for Nick Herbig to continue to get reps not only to spell Highsmith returning, but also TJ Watt on the other side and the potential for all three in at the same time.
“Huge, especially late in the season,” Watt said of having Highsmith available. “As we go on we can’t be taking 90-95 percent of the reps anymore. To have the rotation we have especially Jack Sawyer playing really good football, Herbig playing well and Alex coming back, a capable guy. It’s going to be important that we continue to rotate and stay fresh.”
Warren has been good all week and while Kenneth Gainwell is coming off 99 yards rushing, expect Warren to remain the lead back and potentially using Gainwell in other areas.
Cam Heyward, TJ Watt, Darius Slay, DK Metcalf and Ben Skowronek all missed a little of practice this week, mostly due to rest, and all are cleared.