Let this week’s round of speculation about Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s status begin.
Roethlisberger was a limited participant at practice for the Steelers on Wednesday, a day after coach Mike Tomlin said that he was leaving the door open for the quarterback’s return against the Ravens this week. Roethlisberger’s return was still considered unlikely at that time, but Tomlin also said that Roethlisberger would have to show him he’s capable of playing before he can return. Practicing is as good a way as any to accomplish that.
If Roethlisberger does play, it looks like he’ll have wide receiver Antonio Brown running out under his passes. Brown practiced fully for the Steelers on Wednesday, which sets him on the track toward playing against Baltimore. Safety Troy Polamalu also practiced fully after returning to the field in limited fashion last Friday.
The news wasn’t all good on the injury front. Tackle Mike Adams, guard Willie Colon, tackle Max Starks, linebacker LaMarr Woodley and quarterback Byron Leftwich all missed practice for the Steelers. With all of the injuries on the offensive line, the Steelers are getting first-round pick David DeCastro back at the right time.
Baltimore was without tight end Ed Dickson, wide receiver Jacoby Jones and linebacker Dannell Ellerbee on Wednesday while wide receiver Torrey Smith and safeties Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard were limited.