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Steelers vs. Browns: Tomlin anticipates return of Woodley, Keisel and Foster

While the Steelers could see the return of three key veteran players, all three will likely be limited in the early part of the week, as will WR Emmanuel Sanders.

By Neal Coolong
Charles LeClaire-US PRESSWIRE

Even if they're limited early in the week, as Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said at his press conference Tuesday, the returns of left guard Ramon Foster, outside linebacker LaMarr Woodley and defensive end Brett Keisel would be a big boost.

The Steelers were absent those three players in a win over Detroit in Week 11, but with the Steelers now viable post-season contenders, the presence of all three of them is necessary if they are to overcome an 0-4 start and make the playoffs.

Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders will also be limited in the early part of the week, according to Tomlin. Sanders suffered a foot injury in the second quarter of the game against Detroit. Rookie Markus Wheaton filled in for him, and along with the contributions of Jerricho Cotchery, and a huge game from Antonio Brown, the Steelers receiving corps didn't miss a beat.

Cleveland is a completely different beast than the Lions. The Browns hold one of the game's best passing defenses, and will pose a threat to the surging Steelers' passing game.

The Steelers ran the ball poorly against Detroit - a stout run defense. Foster's absence dragged a lot of it down, and if they hope to have anything of a running game Sunday, they'll need him.

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