Steelers/NFL
Friday Practice Report
The Pittsburgh Steelers went through their final practice of the week today as the team looks to snap a five game losing streak.
Pittsburgh’s slim playoff chances remain alive after Indianapolis rallied late to beat Jacksonville (7-7) 35-31 Thursday night.
However, for a team that hasn’t won since November 9th or won at home since October 25th, the Steelers focus is on just getting a “W”. That in itself will be difficult as the Green Bay Packers (9-4) come to town.
Center Justin Hartwig (knee), defensive end Brett Keisel (neck) and wide receiver Hines Ward (hamstring) were full participants in practice today and will play Sunday afternoon.
Guard Chris Kemoeatu (right knee, wrist) and safety Troy Polamalu (knee) did not practice. Kemoeatu went through individuals on Thursday but as noted by head coach Mike Tomlin earlier in the week, Kemoeatu will be held out by the coaching staff.
Wide receiver Tyler Grisham will serve as the Steelers No.4 wideout this week.
Wide receiver Limas Sweed was surprisingly the Steelers No.5 wideout against Cleveland but the reason for that is he came down with an illness early (last) Thursday morning and the illness has kept him off the field all week.
It’s being speculated he has the swine flu but team officials have not confimed that.
For Sweed, it’s been a major disappointing year after showing some promise in the pre-season.
It was believed he won the No. 3 wide out spot out of training camp but rarely saw the field in the season opener as Mike Wallace took the No. 3 spot and ran with it.
Meanwhile, Sweed had a hamstring injury and was held out of the lineup in week 2, then dropped a crucial touchdown pass in week 3 against Cincinnati and has only been a target of four passes since.
Despite his struggles, the Steelers continue to claim they are very high on him and have not given up on him.
Sweed is a very hard worker in practice, often making eye-catching receptions and there’s at least some in the organization who feel he wasn’t given enough opportunities this season.
The final three games would be a prime opportunity to give Sweed a few extra reps but his luck is running out with an illness that will sidelined him at least this week, maybe longer.
He’s one of those players who might just need a change of scenery. He would sure welcome one.
