Steelers Injury Updates: Ballage, Snell, Washington Return; Green Excused

PITTSBURGH – The Steelers were back on the practice field two days after their second preseason game as they continue to iron out the competition battles and stay business focused with the regular season fast approaching.

With veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger set to start the next preseason game next Saturday night, most of the Steelers first team offense was on the field with him. This included wide receiver James Washington, who left practice banged up with a knee injury in the midst of rumors he requested to be traded due to not being utilized enough in Pittsburgh, and running backs Benny Snell and Kalen Ballage returning to the practice field.

As far as who missed Saturday’s practice, head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed center Kendrick Green was excused for the day while offensive tackle Chaz Green (undisclosed) and receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (right knee) were also missing in action. On the defensive side of the ball, defensive back Antoine Brooks Jr. (hamstring) and Stephon Tuitt were still out and outside linebacker T.J. Watt remains limited.

Despite still dealing with some injury concerns, which is accustomed with any NFL team, the Steelers are actually getting healthier and seeing most of their key players back on the field with Week 1 of the regular season now about a month away.