Mike Tomlin not tipping his hand in regards to Ben Roethlisberger’s availability

Mike Tomlin is a cool customer. He has all the sayings, confidence and enough swagger for the entire Pittsburgh Steelers team, but sometimes he becomes rather predictable. The perfect example would be in his Tuesday press conference, when the football world was waiting for an update on Ben Roethlisberger and his rehabilitation from a torn meniscus, Tomlin didn’t even mention his name until 5 minutes into the weekly press gathering.

Finally, when running down the injuries, and players who might be available in Week 9 when the Steelers travel to Baltimore to play the host Ravens, you heard Cameron Heyward dealing with his hamstring, Markus Wheaton and his shoulder injury, Marcus Gilbert and his foot, and...oh yeah...Ben Roethlisberger and his knee.

Tomlin seemingly tried to slide Roethlisberger’s name into the list as if he were trying to pull a fast one on everyone in the room, as well as those watching and listening around the globe.

Whether planned or not, you can completely chalk this decision up to some friendly sportsmanship between Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Tomlin trying to possibly downplay Roethlisberger’s injury didn’t stop the media from following up with several questions regarding the franchise quarterback and his availability this Sunday.

For those who were waiting with bated breath to hear if Roethlisberger would be available Sunday, well, you should know better, but Tomlin stated it will be a day-to-day process. The main reason being as Roethlisberger puts more strain on his knee, the team has to see how the joint responds to the increased workload.

Don’t expect much news on Roethlisberger throughout the week, other than the mandatory practice report, as the Steelers will want to make the Ravens plan for both Landry Jones and Roethlisberger.

Tomlin did mention other injury news, and it was all good except for that of Cody Wallace. The reserve center is still dealing with a knee injury and is likely out again for the game in Week 9. Other than Wallace, Heyward, Gilbert, Shamarko Thomas and Roethlisberger could be available depending on how their week of practice goes. Tomlin did mention the week off was great for players like Ryan Shazier, Mike Mitchell, DeAngelo Williams and Antonio Brown as they work off their own personal injuries and prepare to return to the field Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium.

Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest injury news and updates as the team continues their preparation for the Ravens in Week 9.