Props to steelerinchicago for being the first to break the news that Aaron Smith is most likely done for the season with a torn bicep. I don't have to tell you how much this hamstrings the defense as Smith is one of the best 3-4 ends in the league. It's not official because I'm sure they'll get a second opinion before placing him on IR, but it sounds like a done deal. He'll need surgery and hopefully will be ready by training camp.
Replacing him with be some combination of Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason. Kirschke (4th season w/ the Steelers) has been a good backup but isn't really starting material and Eason is in his first year with the Steelers. I don't know about the rest of you, but that doesn't inspire much hope in my mind. The other 10 guys will have to pick up even more of the slack with Smith on the sidelines. Please, please be ready Troy Polamalu. We need you now more than ever.