Steelers QB Pickett expected to start vs. Raiders

Rookie has suffered two concussions this season
Kenny Pickett #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers warms up prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens
Kenny Pickett Photo credit Joe Sargent/Getty Images

Pittsburgh, PA (AP) - Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett should leave the concussion protocol this week, clearing the way for him to start on Saturday against Las Vegas.

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Pickett did not play in Sunday’s 24-16 victory over Carolina after sustaining his second concussion in two months early in a loss to Baltimore on Dec. 11. Mitch Trubisky played well while filling in, but Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Pickett will play against the Raiders (6-8) if there are no setbacks.

“The concussion component of where (Pickett) is, is behind us,” Tomlin said. “I think he’s gotta check a box procedurally, but if we were to practice (Tuesday), he’d be a full participant.”

Tomlin also anticipates inside linebacker Myles Jack to play after he sat out against the Panthers with a groin injury. Safety Terrell Edmunds, wide receiver Diontae Johnson and fullback Derek Watt are dealing with minor injuries that should not affect their availability.

Pittsburgh (6-8) has won four of six to remain in the outermost fringe of the playoff race.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Joe Sargent/Getty Images