By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
The Steelers will be without safety Ryan Clark on Sunday against the Browns after he injured his right shoulder against the Titans, but he could benefit from the team having a bye the first week of the playoffs.
"We will evaluate him next week," said head coach Mike Tomlin. "If we had to play the following week, he probably wouldn't make that either. We don't, so that is a good thing."
Tyrone Carter will start for Clark and Anthony Smith will also see playing time at safety.
Linebacker James Harrison, who suffered a hip pointer against the Titans, is expected to play against the Browns, but could be limited in practice early in the week.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger suffered an ankle sprain and also will be limited in practice early in the week.
Other than that, the injury news is relatively good for the Steelers.
"We have various other bumps and bruises that may or may not limit people at the beginning of the week," said Tomlin.
Offensive tackle Marvel Smith was placed on injured reserve, ending a season that has been marred by a back injury. Smith had been inactive for the previous 10 weeks.
The Steelers added offensive tackle Jason Capizzi to take his spot on the roster. Capizzi, who was signed from the St. Louis Rams practice squad, was with the Steelers during training camp.
Max Starks has filled in for Smith and has been a steady performer on the line.
"Max has done a solid job," said Tomlin. "You know what goes with playing left tackle in this league. The challenges are many week in and week out. He stood up well for us and gave us the kind of production that we need to win games. Of course, he has some big challenges that lie ahead; they start with (Kamerion) Wimbley this weekend."
