Just when it appeared the Steelers would have their entire allotment of starters healthy and available for the regular-season opener, the status of one of the defense's most important players is in question.
Outside linebacker Bud Dupree did not practice Friday because of a shoulder injury, the team said. Dupree was listed as limited for Thursday's practice for the same reason.
is listed as questionable to play Sunday in Cleveland against the Browns., the Steelers have had a relatively strict policy of players not playing Sunday if they can't practice Friday. Dupree,Under coach Mike Tomlin, however
If Dupree can't play, Anthony Chickillo would start at left outside linebacker opposite rookie T.J. Watt.
“You just have to be ready for your opportunity when they call your number,” Chickillo said. “I'll be ready if needed.”
A sixth-round pick in 2015 who has seven career starts,
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Chickillo said he expects Dupree to play Sunday.
‘RETURN' TO GLORY
Antonio Brown confirmed he was returning punts in practice, but he was coy about whether he would do so against the Browns.
man,
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Eli Rogers also confirmed he was returning punts in practice.
Brown has been the Steelers' primary punt returner for most of his career,With only brief exceptions,
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whatever he needs me to do. I'm in the helmet and willing to do it.”,
Womens Markus Wheatont Jersey, I am always willing and capable,“Whatever is needed,” Brown said. “If coach calls my number
Kickoff return duties for Sunday are murkier. One man who said he won't do them is Artie Burns. The second-year cornerback is listed as the No. 2 kickoff returner on the Steelers' depth chart, but Burns said he won't be doing so this season.
the Steelers have mostly used offensive players to return kickoffs,
Authentic Walter Payton Jersey,Under Tomlin,
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Backup running back Terrell Watson and rookie receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster are expected to be the Steelers' kickoff returners.
HAWKINS OUT
Aside from Dupree,
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The Steelers will need to trim a player from their 53-man roster for Le'Veon Bell to be eligible to play against the Browns. The NFL granted the Steelers a two-week roster exemption for Bell because he did not sign his franchise-player tender,
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BROWNS INJURY REPORT
Other than rookie No. 1 overall draft pick Myles Garrett — who is out with a sprained ankle — the Browns are healthy heading into Sunday's game.
Although 10 players are listed on their injury report,
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Starting left guard Joel Bitonio (knee injury) and starting defensive end Nate Orchard (groin) each went through a full practice Friday for the first time this week.
