The Pittsburgh Steelers, and their global fan base, were wondering all week if Ben Roethlisberger would be available in Week 10 when the Cincinnati Bengals come to town. Not only are the Steelers attempting to remain perfect on the season, but a huge divisional game at home is one they cannot afford to lose.
Even against the 2-5-1 Bengals.
With that said, it was unknown whether or not Roethlisberger, Vince Williams, Jaylen Samuels and Jerald Hawkins would be cleared to play after being placed on the COVID/Reserve List after being considered “high risk” after Vance McDonald’s positive test Monday.
Mike Tomlin spoke with the media on Friday and said he fully expects Roethlisberger, and the other three players, to be removed from the list on Saturday.
This per Missi Matthews of Steelers.com:
Coach Tomlin said he anticipates Vince Williams being available for Sunday as well.
— Missi Matthews (@missi_matthews) November 13, 2020
Tomlin mentioned he is planning on having an extended walk through Saturday to help Roethlisberger get up to speed, get some physical repetitions and get comfortable before playing in the game Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.
When Tomlin was asked about Roethlisberger’s knees, which were reportedly injured in the team’s Week 9 win over the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers’ head coach brushed it off as nothing, suggesting his knees were never even an issue.
Mike Tomlin says there will be no limitations on what the #Steelers will look to do offensively despite Ben Roethlisberger being unable to practice all week. He also says he was able to get all the rehab he needed on his sore knees - and that "his knees weren't an issue" anyway.
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) November 13, 2020
This is great news for the Steelers, not only in getting Roethlisberger back on the field, but also not having any further positive tests stemming from McDonald’s diagnosis.
Tomlin did allude to some other players who were banged up and could return, but fans will be seeing the final injury report/game designation report shortly. For that, and much more, stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes on the Steelers as they prepare for the Bengals in Week 10.