Rookie linebacker Ryan Shazier told reporters today that he expects to play Saturday night in the Steelers 2nd preseason game. Shazier suffered what coach Tomlin referred to as “just a little boo-boo” to his right knee over a week ago, and hasn’t resumed practicing since.

In an interview this afternoon, fellow linebacker Lawrence Timmons said that Shazier is expected back by the end of the week. While wearing a big band aid of sorts on his knee, Shazier confirmed that he expected to play against the Bills Saturday night, but couldn’t say exactly when he’d return to practice this week.

The Steelers have regular practice today and tomorrow, then host the Buffalo Bills for joint practices on Wednesday and Thursday.