Isaac Redman and Jarvis Jones Will Miss Pittsburgh’s Final Preseason Game
December 9, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Isaac Redman (33) rushes the ball against the San Diego Chargers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. The San Diego Chargers won 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Alan Robinson of The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review recently provided us with information regarding some of the Steelers’ most important injured players. According to Robinson, running back Isaac Redman and outside linebacker Jarvis Jones will both be sidelined for Pittsburgh’s preseason finale.
I will admit that I am at least a little shocked that Redman is sitting out, but I can understand the reasoning behind the decision. Due to the recent news that it will be Redman, not Jonathan Dwyer, who will be the team’s starting running back while Le’Veon Bell is on the mend, the Steelers’ coaching staff probably do not want to risk further injury to the veteran running back who is recovering from a stinger.
According to Robinson’s article, head coach Mike Tomlin said that Redman is a “known commodity.” Moreover, Tomlin appears more interested in seeing the other backs on the roster (Dwyer, LaRod Stephens-Howling, and Felix Jones) duke it out for the final roster spots.
As far as Jones is concerned, I applaud the move to keep him sidelined during this week’s game. With a sprained AC joint in his chest/shoulder area, the rookie should be held out for precautionary purposes regardless of the fact that he can play. Plus, it will not hurt the defense if Jason Worilds receives some extra reps while Jones rides the pine on Thursday evening so the veteran can get in one last preparation session before Week 1.
While the last preseason game will be a backup-laden affair, it should serve to be entertaining to watch while the reserves try to make the Steelers 53-man roster or practice squad. Jones and Redman however will not be suiting up for the final preseason tilt with their other teammates.
Stats & Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com and Pro Football Reference
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