Getty ImagesThe Steelers signed quarterback Brian Hoyer on Tuesday, which sent a pretty good sign that neither Ben Roethlisberger nor Byron Leftwich will be healthy enough to play this Sunday.
Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that later in the day when he ruled out Leftwich and termed Roethlisberger doubtful to play against the Browns. Tomlin had some better news in terms of Roethlisberger’s overall recovery from the rib and shoulder injuries that kept him out of the Week 11 loss to the Ravens.
“He had an additional test done today and all things are very positive in terms of where he is,” Tomlin said, via Jamison Hensley of ESPN.com. “We’re encouraged about his status.”
Tomlin also provided updates on a slew of other injured Steelers. Wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery won’t play this week, opening the door for Plaxico Burress’ return to the NFL and Antonio Brown will be limited early in the week as he tries to return after an ankle injury. Safety Troy Polamalu is expected to run on Wednesday and is considered questionable after missing the last six weeks with a calf issue. Tackle Marcus Gilbert is also questionable, according to Tomlin.
The Steelers also announced that they have waived running back Baron Batch and linebacker Marshall McFadden to create room for Burress and Hoyer on the roster.
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He is just so tough! Wat a drama queen. He obviously wasn’t as hurt as he first said he was.
Will allen id playing outstanding football. Take ur time troy
Bad news for the Ratbirds.
cleveland playing very competitively lately…
steelers will have their hands full
Shame they had to cut Batch. Hopefully he is able to clear waivers so the team can sign him to the practice squad. That kid has potential.
To all you Steeler haters, Ben is an absolute iron man. He gets hit more and makes more hapen than any other QB in the league. He is the definition of a true Steeler!
I just don’t get all the Ben hate when it comes to him being dramatic. I mean the guy has played through injury time and time again.
Ben no ben, hoyer, batch, it really doesn’t matter on sunday, the browns will give the stealers a spanking in Cleveland. Don’t be fooled by the record, one play here or there, or a few less penalties and the browns are 7 -3 . I’m willng to bet Pat Shurmers job that the browns will win by at least a touchdown. Enjoy!
No Ben, the Browns win 13-10.
get better soon Big Ben. we need someone who can stop the cheaters up in New England