The Steelers are getting some defensive players back into the fold this week as Ike Taylor, Ryan Shazier, Troy Polamalu, and Shamarko Thomas move towards playing this Sunday. Ike was a full participant in practice for the second day this week, so the arrow seems to be clearly pointing up for him to play on Sunday.

After practice, team Dr. James Bradley checked on Taylor. According to the veteran cornerback, Bradley was just checking on him. “I’m ready,” said Ike.

S Shamarko Thomas and CB Cortez Allen both participated fully in today’s practice. In his press conference yesterday, Coach Tomlin said that Allen broke his thumb during a practice before the Tennessee Titans game. The injury required pins to be inserted, and Allen is sporting a protective cast this week. His ability to play on Sunday will depend on how that hampers him this week.

Rookie linebacker Ryan Shazier was also a full participant today- the first time since injuring his ankle on November 2nd. Shazier says his ankle is still a little sore, but it’s feeling a lot better via ESPN. “It’s a little sore but I’m just going to listen to whatever the trainers and doctors tell me and be ready.”

Nose Tackle Steve McLendon was limited during practice today due to his shoulder injury. RT Marcus Gilbert was also listed as limited on the injury report. According to Ramon Foster, the two got “tangled up” during a play in practice, and Gilbert took the worst of it.

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If Gilbert can’t go on Sunday, Mike Adams will be his replacement.

S Troy Polamalu, DE Brett Keisel, and TE Heath Miller were all given veteran days off today. WR Martavis Bryant did not practice due to an illness.

Troy is recovering from a knee sprain, but is expected to play against the Saints this Sunday.