Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith was back in full pads on Tuesday at the Steelers’ practice, which some of his teammates saw as a positive step toward getting back on the field for the first time since suffering a torn triceps in October.
“I think he needed to remember how to put his helmet back on and tie his shoes,” Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel said. “To get him back on the football field running around a little bit was a step in the right direction.”
But it’s only a small step: Smith, who didn’t talk to reporters, mostly watched practice and left early, and he isn’t expected to play in the Steelers’ AFC divisional playoff game on January 15.
Steelers safety Troy Polamalu (Achilles) and cornerback Bryant McFadden (abdomen) sat out practice but expect to be on the field in the Steelers’ playoff opener.