Steelers Starting Guard Surprisingly Out vs. Falcons

ATLANTA — Steelers starting right guard James Daniels is not dressed and appears to be out against the Falcons on Thursday night. Steelers Now’s Alan Saunders spotted Daniels wearing street clothes as the rest of the team went through warmups, including the rest of the starting offensive line. In his place, Kendrick Green will be the starting right guard as the team deals with many injuries at guard.

There is no known injury to Daniels. It can not be assumed immediately that he is being held out to do an ailment, with none previously known. However, backups Kevin Dotson (right shoulder) and Nate Herbig (shoulder) are already injured. So, Daniels missing shortens that depth even more so.

It should be a good opportunity for players such as Green, Bill Dunkle, Dylan Cook, Spencer Anderson, and Ryan McCollum to showcase what they can do with Daniels unlikely to play. In addition, it gives the Steelers a chance to test the depth at the position with three injuries. Isaac Seumalo is suited up to play at left guard.

Kenny Pickett and the Steelers offense will play a solid amount until Mike Tomlin believes he’s seen enough from the players on the first team. This is a good test for the Steelers to deal with things when they go sideways. Daniels is entering his second season with the Steelers after coming over from the Chicago Bears.

Alan Saunders contributed reporting from Atlanta.