Steelers OLB James Harrison is doubtful for Sunday's game at Cincinnati because of a knee injury that has kept him out of practice this week. His absence should make it easier for OLB Jarvis Jones to find playing time in his return to action, though the 2nd-year player is not an IDP option.

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Steelers HC Mike Tomlin said during his Tuesday press conference that he expects LB Ryan Shazier to return for Sunday's game at Cincinnati. The rookie has missed the past 3 games with a sprained ankle, and we wouldn't bet on him stepping right back into a full-time role Sunday. Shazier played limited snaps earlier this season when he returned from a 4-game absence for a knee sprain. Pittsburgh also expects OLB Jarvis Jones to practice this week for the 1st time since a September wrist injury that has cost him 9 games. “We want him to take another step as we go out on the practice field tomorrow and see if we have a decision to make regarding him this week,” Tomlin said. Veteran OLB James Harrison, of course, has re-emerged as a defensive leader and dangerous pass-rusher in Jones' absence.

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The Steelers returned to the practice field Monday after their Week 12 bye and welcomed 4 defensive starters back from injuries. ILB Ryan Shazier, S Troy Polamalu, OLB Jarvis Jones and CB Ike Taylor all participated after each missing multiple games. We'll see whether their returns mean they're all ready for game action in Week 13. Jones has been on IR/designated to return, so the team has 3 weeks to decide whether to activate him. Pittsburgh reportedly expects Shazier and Polamalu to play against New Orleans on Sunday. They're the only 2 among this quartet that present immediate IDP intrigue. You'd be best off waiting to see how much Shazier plays, though. The last time he returned to the lineup from a knee injury, he saw limited snaps.

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