Tuesday Tomlin: Dixon to lead Steelers into Nashville; Updates on Starks, Hampton

Photo: David Hague — Inside Pittsburgh Sports

Starting left tackle Max Starks has an inversion ankle sprain which is a low ankle sprain, head coach Mike Tomlin said today. Tomlin said reports of Starks having a high ankle sprain are false.

Tomlin saw Max this morning and he appears to be doing better. At this point Starks has not been ruled out of Sunday’s game and the injury is not as severe as first believed. In reality he’s doubtful for this week but don’t look for Starks to miss more than a game or two.

If Starks is unable to play on Sunday, Jonathan Scott will start at left tackle according to Tomlin. Tomlin said there is no consideration to move Flozell Adams to left tackle. “He’s a right tackle, ” Tomlin said.

Tomlin said Tony Hills and Ramon Foster will battle to be the 3rd tackle this week. Hills is believed to have a leg up but Foster is tackle capable and provides versatility.

Meanwhile, quarterback Byron Leftwich (knee) is doing better and Tomlin said that the team will give him some work in a limited capacity this week.

However, If Leftwich is healthy enough to play this week, he won’t be the team’s starter. Tomlin said today that Dennis Dixon will be leading the Steelers into Nashville. Tomlin said the Steelers are staying with Dixon because they believe he will continue to evolve.

Leftwich could dress in a backup role, depending on if he is cleared to play.

No real news has been available regarding the status for Casey Hampton. The Steelers are going to monitor him this week but indications are he won’t be available.

Tomlin praised punter Daniel Sepulveda on his punting ability in Sunday’s game and was also pleased with Jeff Reed’s ability on kickoffs.

“I thought he {Jeff Reed} did pretty good, ” Tomlin said. “Ball placement was good.”

Don’t look for any changes in the kick and punt return game as Antonio Brown appears unlikely to earn a “hat” against Tennessee. The Steelers appear more comfortable going with veteran Antwaan Randle EL.