Steelers sign RB Ben Tate, waive WR Justin Brown

The Steelers announced the signing of free agent running back Ben Tate Tuesday afternoon, coming after comments from Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin that injured RB Le'Veon Bell would be evaluated day-to-day for his availability against Baltimore in the playoffs Saturday.

Tate signed with the Browns this past offseason, but injuries and a lack of carries eventually led to his release. Minnesota signed him shortly after his release, but he was cut by the Vikings before Week 17.

To make room for Tate, the Steelers released wide receiver Justin Brown.

Brown, a second-year player and former sixth-round draft pick, started the 2014 season as the team's third receiver. The emergence of Martavis Bryant, and the use of veteran Lance Moore, led to Brown's deactivation for the entire second half of the season.

The Steelers face the Baltimore Ravens Saturday in the AFC Wild Card round playoffs. The Steelers and Ravens split their two games this season, with both teams exchanging 20-point victories in their own stadiums.