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Jarvis Jones injury: Steelers rookie has a concussion, status vs. Ravens unclear

Heading into Friday, it's unclear whether Steelers rookie OLB Jarvis Jones will be cleared to play against Baltimore.

By Neal Coolong
Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers rookie outside linebacker Jarvis Jones suffered a concussion during a kickoff in Sunday's win over the New York Jets, and has been limited in practice this week. He missed Wednesday's session entirely, but returned on a limited basis Thursday.

Jones will have to pass a series of tests in order to play Sunday against Baltimore. According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Post-Gazette, he was cleared to pass the "exercise challenge," the league's mandated series of tests required for clearance after a concussion. The implication is if he can pass that, and practice fully - something Steelers coach Mike Tomlin requires of younger players - he'll be able to play Sunday.

Jones replaced veteran OLB as the team's starter opposite LaMarr Woodley after Week 1, but the two have been splitting snaps to this point in the season.

The injury may have explained Jones' lack of production in the game. He only had one quarterback hit, and that came in the fourth quarter after the Jets left a running back between Jones and quarterback Geno Smith. It resulted in an interception, but it was the only time Jones came close to the passer in the game.

For the season, Jones has 18 tackles - two for loss - and no sacks.

Jones was taken to the hospital after suffering an injury in the Steelers' third preseason game. It was nothing more than a precautionary measure, and he sat out the team's final preseason game as a result.

Still adjusting to the NFL, Jones hasn't made many plays so far this season, but the potential for him is evident. He moves quickly in open space after the ball carrier, it just doesn't appear he's developed a pass-rush move he can rely on to this point.

The Steelers play AFC North rival Baltimore at 4:25 p.m. Sunday.

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