Steelers coach Mike Tomlin announced today RT Willie Colon had surgery to repair a torn triceps, and will likely be placed on the IR. Rookie Marcus Gilbert will be given first crack at the starting right tackle position vacated by Colon - for the second straight season.
Gilbert and second-year T Chris Scott were the likely replacements for Colon. The reference to Gilbert getting "the first crack" at earning the position long-term indicates the competition still may be up in the air. He said he expects to work out a few veterans, noting it would be for depth.
Gilbert is a rookie, selected out of Florida with the Steelers second round draft pick in 2011.
If Colon is put on the IR, there is some speculation as to what the Steelers would do with the extra roster spot. Some options would be practice squad OLs Trevis Turner and John Malecki, and while veteran names like Flozell Adams and Max Starks have surfaced, it doesn't appear either of them are an option at this point.
The Steelers (0-1) square off against Seattle (0-1) in their home opener Sunday.