On Monday we speculated that the Pittsburgh Steelers might have to make a roster move at the end of the week because of the ankle injury suffered by starting wide receiver Antonio Brown in the win Sunday over the New York Giants.
During his Tuesday press conference head coach Mike Tomlin termed Brown as doubtful for the game Monday night against the Kansas City Chiefs and he was asked if indeed there is a chance that a roster move might be forthcoming.
“Potentially,” said Tomlin. “And one of the things about offense, and offensive personnel groups, you dictate what it is that you choose to use, so obviously that\’s something that we\’ll consider, but definitely not something that is a necessity at this point.”
Judging by the comments made by Tomlin, a potential roster move is not a slam dunk right now. The obvious addition, if indeed a move is to be made, would be practice squad wide receiver David Gilreath, who had 5 catches for 78 yards in limited preseason action.
The addition of Gilreath would also provide the Steelers with another capable return man as the former Wisconsin product can return both punts and kickoffs should the emergency need arise.
With Brown likely to be out and running back Chris Rainey still recovering from a rib injury suffered Sunday, the return duties will be in the hands of Emmanuel Sanders, who returned 3 punts for 76 yards on Sunday after both Brown and Rainey exited the game.
Tomlin did note on Tuesday that both Mike Wallace and Jerricho Cotchery are capable return men should the need arise against the Chiefs.
For now it will be a guessing game as to whether or not that roster move comes to fruition, but it should not be a surprise if one is not made.
