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The Pittsburgh Steelers are in need of something. What is that something? Well, it depends who you talk to, but they are in need of a deep threat down the seam on offense, and an outside pass rusher on defense.
With that in mind, Mike Tomlin provided some great news for fans at his weekly news conference Tuesday as they heard for the first time of Ladarius Green progressing close to being activated to the team’s 53-man roster, as well as Bud Dupree coming off injured reserve to contribute at the outside linebacker position.
Tomlin: Ladarius Green had a really good week last week. Will be considered this week. Dupree will practice this week. #Steelers
— David Todd (@DavidMTodd) November 8, 2016
Should be noted that Dupree will have 21 days to practice before the #Steelers have to activate him or keep him on IR. Won't play this week
— Dale Lolley (@dlolleyor) November 8, 2016
As explained by Dale Lolley of the Washington County Observer-Reporter, Dupree, like Green in previous weeks, will be given 21 days to prove he is capable of being placed on the team’s 53-man active roster.
It isn’t likely Dupree plays in Week 10 against the Dallas Cowboys, but his practicing this is week is a great first step. Dupree could help rejuvenate a sagging pass rush, but has to get himself back into game shape before he can get on the field to make plays.
As for Green, it looks like this week might be his week. The week fans finally get to see the team’s prized free agent acquisition for the first time in black and gold. Some may suggest his impact will be minimal, but those are people who also don’t know just what Green can do to an opposing defense.
In Antonio Brown’s post-game comments after the loss to the Baltimore Ravens, he mentioned how with three defenders focused on him, it should leave the middle of the field open. Where does Green do his best work? In the middle of the field.
Green would be a tremendous upgrade from the tight end position, at least as a pass catcher, and although he might not be ready to go play 100-percent of the offensive snaps right away, he very well could be used in bunch formations, and become a tremendous advantage for the offense in the red-zone.
The Steelers will have their first reported practice Wednesday, and fans should stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news surrounding the black and gold.