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Source: LaRod Stephens-Howling a 'game-time decision,' but isn't likely to play

A source told Behind The Steel Curtain Stephens-Howling continues to be sidelined by a sprained MCL,and isn't likely to play Saturday against the Chiefs. If he does, he will be very limited, fueling speculation that the recent trade for RB Felix Jones is an insurance policy against prolonged injury for Stephens-Howling.

By Neal Coolong
Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport

Steelers running back LaRod Stephens-Howling isn't likely to play tonight, adding intrigue to the recent trade that netted the Steelers RB Felix Jones, a source told Behind The Steel Curtain Saturday.

Stephens-Howling has a medial collateral sprain in his knee, and Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said recently his activity in the Steelers' game Saturday against Kansas City would be decided close to kickoff.

If he plays, the source said Stephens-Howling would be very limited - as in just a few plays. The Steelers are expected to play their starters through the first half against the Chiefs.

Steelers PR manager Burt Lauten says Felix Jones will wear No. 23 and will see some action tonight.

Considering the depth the Steelers have at both their inside and outside linebacker positions, and the injuries of both Le'Veon Bell and Stephens-Howling, it seems likely Jones was brought in to give their starters a break for the remainder of the preseason. Bell is out for the next few weeks, at least. Isaac Redman and Baron Batch both suffered stingers in the last two weeks. Jonathan Dwyer remains the only healthy running back the Steelers have who is legitimately competing for a spot.

Alvester Alexander, a second-year player out of Wyoming, and Jeremy Wright, a recently acquired rookie from Louisville, are the other two running backs on the roster.

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