Steelers starting cornerback Cortez Allen and reserve corner Curtis Brown were among the seven inactive players declared by the club in advance of Monday night’s game at Cincinnati.
Neither inactive is a surprise. Allen (ankle) had been previously ruled out, and Brown (illness) was doubtful.
According to Bob Labriola of Steelers Digest, William Gay will start in place of Allen, while rookie safety Shamarko Thomas will be the club’s nickel back.
The Steelers’ other inactives are tight end Heath Miller (knee), running back Le’Veon Bell (foot), placekicker Shayne Graham, quarterback Landry Jones, offensive lineman Cody Wallace. Miller and Bell had already been ruled out for Week Two.
With Graham inactive, Shaun Suisham will handle the kicking for the Steelers. Graham was signed in the event Suisham (left hamstring) was unable to play, but Suisham went through full practices on Friday and Saturday and was listed as probable for Monday’s game.