Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report: LaMarr Woodley listed as doubtful vs. Lions
When the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon at Heinz Field, there is a good chance they will have to do so without their best pass rusher.
Outside linebackerLaMarr Woodleyis listed as doubtful for Sunday with a calf injury, meaning it’s likely he won’t be available when the Steelers search for their second consecutive victory.
Nov 10, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker LaMarr Woodley (56) warms up prior to a game against the Buffalo Bills at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Woodley leads the Steelers with five sacks on the season, which isn’t really anything to brag about, but considering the fact that the Steelers only have 16 sacks (28th in NFL) as a team on the season, his potential absence could be felt.
If Woodley can’t go, expectJason Worildsto start in his spot and rookieJarvis Jonesto get the start on the right side.
Woodley, who missed practice Friday for a third consecutive day, remains optimistic about his chances to play,telling Mike Prisuta of Steelers.com:
"“I have a great shot,” Woodley said. “Two days left. I have until 11:30 on Sunday. I’m the only one who really knows how my calf is feeling, if I’m able to go, if I’m going to be out there helping the team or hurting the team. It’s definitely going to be my decision if I can go or not. Got plenty of time to test it. My biggest test is going to be Sunday morning. We’ll see then.”"
Defensive endBrett Keiselalso missed practice for a third consecutive day on Friday with a foot injury and, along with guardRamon Foster, is listed as questionable.
Keisel calls himself a game-time decision and thinks he will be available. If he can’t go for some reason, Ziggy Hood will likely get the start in his spot. Is Foster can’t go;Guy Whimperwill get the nod at left guard.
In other injury news, rookie safetyShamarko Thomasis out with an ankle injury while the likes of: TKelvin Beachum(hip); GDavid DeCastro(ankle); TMarcus Gilbert(ankle); TEHeath Miller(not injury related); TMike Adams(ribs); and CFernando Velasco(knee) are also listed as probable.