The Steelers have had depth issues at inside linebacker all season long, starting with the retirement of longtime starter Vince Williams prior to the start of minicamp in the spring.
This week, as they prepare to host the Browns Monday night in a must-win game for both teams, the Steelers might be even more thin at the position than they have been at any point this season.
Joe Schobert, acquired in a preseason trade, was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 List earlier this week, joining Devin Bush, who was placed on the list Dec. 22. Rookie Buddy Johnson is listed as out for Monday's game with a foot injury, leaving Robert Spillane, Marcus Allen and Ulysees Gilbert as the team's lone experienced inside linebackers against the Browns.
Allen was activated off the COVID-19 list earlier in the week, while the Steelers signed Tegray Scales off the practice squad of the Bengals to provide depth. Scales was with the Steelers in training camp.
The Browns aren't the best team to be missing inside linebackers against. They're third in the NFL in rushing, averaging just under 145 yards rushing per game.
The Steelers could still get Bush back for the game. Sunday will mark his 10th day on the Reserve/COVID-19 List. If he is no longer feeling COVID symptoms, he would be cleared to return regardless of testing.
The Steelers also could get Schobert back -- if he has two negative tests within a 24-hour period. Bush has started 13 games, while Schobert has made all 15 at inside linebacker this season.
Meanwhile, the team did activate defensive tackle Isaiah Buggs off the Reserve/COVID-19 List Saturday, while rookie punter Pressley Harvin, whose father died last week, returned to the team, as well. Harvin, however, is dealing with an illness and though listed as questionable for Monday's game, is unlikely to play against the Browns. If he does not play, Corliss Williamson would handle placekicking and holding duties against the Browns.
With the signing of Scales and even while carrying two punters, the Steelers have 50 eligible players for Monday night's game on their roster. In addition to Bush, the Steelers still have running back Anthony McFarland, defensive back Arthur Maulet and defensive lineman Chris Wormley on the COVID-19 List.
Rookie center Kendrick Green practiced on a limited basis Friday for the first day this week. He is listed as questionable to play with a calf injury. If he does not start, J.C. Hassenauer would make his first start at center this season.
The Steelers will get rookie tight end Pat Freiermuth back for this game. Freiermuth was a full participant in practice all week long after sitting out last week's loss to the Chiefs with a concussion.
For the Browns, safeties Ronnie Harrison and Josh Johnson are out, as is nickel cornerback Troy Hill. Running back Kareem Hunt and defensive tackle Malik Jackson are questionable.
