Two starters on the Pittsburgh Steelers offense were upgraded on the league-mandated injury report Thursday, but the news for the MVP of the defense went the opposite direction.
T.J. Watt did not practice Thursday after he had been listed as a limited participant the day prior. It’s possible, however, Watt was given the day off as a veteran to help rest his ailing ribs, which have been bothering him in recent weeks and in particular during this past Sunday’s game at the Atlanta Falcons.
The final practice of the week Friday could provide more definitive clarity that Watt will be cleared to play in Sunday’s scheduled home game against the Baltimore Ravens.
Running back Najee Harris and right tackle Chuks Okorafor also are expected to play Sunday. Each was a limited participant in practice Thursday after they sat out Wednesday because of oblique and shoulder injuries, respectively.
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Okorafor suffered his ailment during the win against the Falcons but missed only one snap. Harris’ injury existed heading into that game but he played throughout it without apparent incident.
Practicing fully Thursday was the Steelers’ top backup outside linebacker, Malik Reed, who has been dealing with a back injury. But veteran defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi continued to sit out because of a toe injury.
Wide receiver Diontae Johnson also did not practice Thursday.
Defensive lineman and team co-captain Cameron Heyward was given the day off by coach Mike Tomlin, as is customary on Thursdays.
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