The Steelers will be closer to fuller health on defense than they have been in weeks when they play host to the Indianapolis Colts Sunday afternoon at Heinz Field.
Inside linebacker Vince Williams was added back onto the active roster on Friday after missing two games while being on the COVID list. To make room for Williams on the roster, the Steelers placed Ulysees Gilbert III on injured reserve.
Gilbert, who injured his ankle against Cincinnati Monday night, is on IR for the second time this season. He also spent time on IR earlier this season with a back injury.
Williams’ presence will help against a strong Colts running game led by rookie running back Jonathan Taylor.
Another bit of good news from practice on Friday was defensive end Stephon Tuitt going through his first full practice of the week. He missed practice Wednesday and Thursday with a back injury. He is not listed on the status report and is expected to start on Sunday.
Heading into the Colts game healthier along the defensive front is important because the Colts have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. They have allowed only 16 sacks this season, second only to the Steelers.
Placekicker Chris Boswell, who has a groin injury, is one of four Steelers that are questionable for the game. Boswell did not practice Friday after being limited on Thursday.
If Boswell cannot dress the Steelers would have to elevate Matthew Wright from the practice squad. Wright was signed to the active roster for the Washington game when Boswell had to miss with a hip injury. He was 2 for 2 on extra points and booted a 37-yard field goal, but head coach Mike Tomlin eschewed a 48-yard attempt midway through the fourth quarter when the score was tied because he said he “didn’t feel good putting that on him.”
It was a decision that received much criticism after the game because after Ben Roethlisberger’s fourth-and-1 pass attempt to Anthony McFarland fell incomplete, Washington drove down the field for the winning field goal.
Inside linebacker Marcus Allen (stringer), outside linebacker Ola Adeniyi (shoulder) and running back Anthony McFarland (illness) also are listed as questionable. Allen did not practice all week and Adeniyi practiced on a limited basis Friday after missing Wednesday and Thursday.
Ray Fittipaldo: rfittipaldo@post-gazette.com and Twitter @rayfitt1.
First Published: December 25, 2020, 9:33 p.m.