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Steelers activate S Ross Ventrone, release OL Wesley Johnson

The move is likely based on the injury to Shamarko Thomas, and Johnson would likely be headed for the practice squad if he clears waivers.

By Neal Coolong
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Steelers make two roster moves heading into their Week 6 game against the Cleveland Browns. Likely for the sake of bolstering depth, the Steelers signed safety Ross Ventrone from the practice squad. Back-up safety and special teams contributor Shamarko Thomas won't play Sunday, and Ventrone is likely there to help as needed.

To make room on the roster, the Steelers released rookie offensively lineman Wesley Johnson. It would seem likely he'd end up on the practice squad, provided he clears waivers, which would make the second fifth-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft on Pittsburgh's practice squad. Shaquille Richardson was cut after training camp and was signed to the team's practice squad.

Ventrone has been up and down with the team since 2012. A Pittsburgh native, he's possibly best known for 21 roster moves while with the New England Patriots in 2011. After his release from the team in 2012, he was cut by the Patriots 29 times. He wound up in Pittsburgh on a futures deal after the 2012 season and was cut after the training camps of the 2013 and 2014 seasons.

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