Alex Highsmith doubtful, Cam Heyward questionable for Steelers on Sunday vs. Bears

It does not appear as if Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith will return to game action this week. And suddenly, the status of a defensive co-captain for Sunday’s game at the Chicago Bears is in question, too.

Highsmith was given a doubtful designation on the league-mandated status report Friday after he had been a limited practice participant for the second consecutive day to end the week. Defensive lineman Cameron Heyward was limited Friday and spotted in a walking boot because of an ankle injury.

In Highsmith’s stead have been heightened roles for Steelers outside linebackers Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer.

Heyward – who moved into second place on the Steelers’ career games played list last week – has not missed a game yet this season. If he cannot play, rookie Yahya Black could serve as the No. 3 defensive tackle alongside Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon.

In addition to another questionable designation given to quarterback Aaron Rodgers, veteran cornerback Darius Slay also has that status to play against the Bears. He left the Nov. 9 loss at the Los Angeles Chargers because of a concussion and did not play in this past week’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Slay had practiced fully Wednesday and Thursday but was downgraded to limited Friday.

The positive injury news for the Steelers on Friday came in the form of official green lights given to running back Jaylen Warren (ankle), left guard Isaac Seumalo (pectoral), inside linebacker Cole Holcomb (illness) and kick/punt returner Ke’Shawn Williams (concussion).

Warren and Williams did not finish the Cincinnati game, and Holcomb has missed the past three games. Seumalo returned to play against the Bengals after sitting out the game in Los Angeles.