The Pittsburgh Steelers have now wrapped up their Thursday practice ahead of Sunday’s home game against the New England Patriots and the team’s daily injury report includes some positive news when it comes to a few players.
First off, not practicing again on Thursday were quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (knee), defensive end Cameron Heyward (hamstring), safety Shamarko Thomas (groin), wide receiver Markus Wheaton, center/guard Cody Wallace (knee) and running back DeAngelo Williams (knee).
Of those six players, Williams probably has the best shot at playing Sunday but Friday will be a key day for him.
Roethlisberger, Heyward and Wallace have already been ruled out for Sunday and it’s not looking like Wheaton, Gilbert or Thomas will play, either.
With Gilbert likely to miss his third consecutive game of the season on Sunday, Chris Hubbard is expected to start again in his place at right tackle. With Wheaton likely out, wide receiver Cobi Hamilton is expected to dress again in his place. Hamilton was promoted to the 53-man roster from the practice squad this past Saturday and played sparingly in the Sunday road loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Now for the good news.
After being limited on Wednesday, Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier (knee) is listed as having practiced fully on Thursday and he said after the session was over that he expects to play against the Patriots. Shazier hasn’t played since injuring his knee in the team’s Week 3 road loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Also practicing fully on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday were safeties Robert Golden (foot) and Mike Mitchell (knee). Barring any setbacks, both should be able to play Sunday against the Patriots.
