PITTSBURGH – A handful of players, including a trio of rookies fighting for roster spots, won’t play in the Steelers’ third preseason game on Thursday night in Philadelphia.
Coach Mike Tomlin has ruled out cornerback Shaquille Richardson (knee), linebacker Jordan Zumwalt (groin) and tight end Eric Waters (concussion) for the 7:30 p.m. game against the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Joining the rookies on the list of players who won’t suit up against the Eagles are center Cody Wallace (finger) and long snapper Greg Warren (knee).
Tomlin said Wallace is recovering from surgery he needed to fix a broken finger.
Among the players who are questionable for Thursday are fullback Will Johnson, safety Will Allen, running back Tauren Poole and cornerback Devin Smith.
All are dealing with hamstring injuries, Tomlin said.
Outside linebacker Jarvis Jones is expected to play against the Eagles unless he has a setback in practice on Tuesday. Jones, who has been plagued by a groin injury, did not play in the Steelers’ 19-16 win over the Buffalo Bills last Saturday.
Tomlin said the team will evaluate Jones after practice.
Tomlin did not say how much the starters will play against the Eagles, but they are expected to stay in the game for at least a half.
That means reserves who are trying to make the team will have to make the most of the limited snaps they receive in Philadelphia.
“We’re getting into the meat of this thing a little bit and if guys are going to make a move it’s kind of now or never,” Tomlin said Tuesday at a news conference. “I like that sense of urgency in the guys as we prepare this week, and I think it’s creating a good, competitive environment.”