Leftwich diagnosed with MCL Sprain

Quarterback Byron Leftwich has avoided a complete MCL tear and has been diagnosed with a second-degree sprain of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee, sources told ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen on Friday.

Now the decision is up to the Steelers on what to do next. Leftwich reportedly wants to avoid surgery and believes he can still play in the season opener.

However, there is serious doubts if that will be possible.

A normal second degree MCL sprain will sideline Leftwich for at least a couple weeks and according to doctors who specialize in these areas, there are doubts that he will be available for the first four weeks of Roethlisberger's suspension.