Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
The Pittsburgh Steelers will need “all hands on deck” for their crucial divisional matchup against the Baltimore Ravens this weekend. Earlier this afternoon, Scott Brown of ESPN.com provided those of us in “Steeler Nation” some updated injury news via Twitter:
Steelers outside linebacker Jarvis Jones (concussion) was a limited participant in practice today.
— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_15) October 17, 2013
Looks promising that Jones will play Sunday but he still has to pass concussion necessary tests.
— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_15) October 17, 2013
Steelers DC Dick LeBeu on Jones:
— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_15) October 17, 2013
“He’s pretty good today. He has some symptoms of being hit but I’m optimistic.”
Steelers DE Brett Keisel (abdomen), OLB LaMarr Woodley (knee) and TE Heath Miller were full participants in practice today.
— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_15) October 17, 2013
OT Marcus Gilbert (quadricep) limited again in practice. newly signed TE Richard Gordon (toe) did not practice on Thursday.
— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_15) October 17, 2013
The news regarding Jones is definitely a huge plus, especially since Pittsburgh’s pass-rush looked more potent than it had all year last Sunday. LeBeau’s optimism is also a very positive sign as well. In addition to Jones, it is also great news that Pittsburgh’s other starting outside linebacker and starting defensive end, LaMarr Woodley and Brett Keisel, had a full practices too.
Just like last week, it appears that the team is content to give Heath Miller a day or two off of practice for his knee. I certainly cannot blame them for that strategy, especially since Miller is such an important part of the offense. Even though he was likely to be inactive for this weekend’s game, I am wondering about the extent of Richard Gordon’s recent toe injury.
I am however most concerned about the status of Marcus Gilbert’s injured quadricep. I know that it is only Thursday, but the Steelers can ill-afford to have their starting right tackle hobbled for their most meaningful game of the 2013 regular season. With Levi Brown on injured reserve, Mike Adams could very well get another shot at one of the tackle positions if Gilbert is unable to suit up for or play effectively during Pittsburgh’s upcoming game.
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