Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith cleared concussion protocol and was given an official designation of cleared to play in Saturday’s game at the Indianapolis Colts.
Highsmith, who suffered a neck/head injury during a Dec. 7 loss to the New England Patriots, took part in all three practices this week. But he had not been listed as a full participant until Thursday, according to the injury report.
“I feel very comfortable with (Highsmith’s backups Nick Herbig and Markus Golden), but at the same time Alex is a very special player because of who he is,” said Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt, who himself progressed through concussion protocol this week.
Aside from starting quarterback Kenny Pickett — who is out for a second consecutive game after ankle surgery last week — the only Steelers player on the injury report whose status is up in the air for the Colts game is Isaac Seumalo. The Steelers’ veteran starting left guard, Seumalo did not take part in practice at all this week while he was nursing a shoulder injury suffered during a loss to the Arizona Cardinals two weeks ago. Seumalo, though, played through his injury during the New England game.
Nate Herbig would start in Seumalo’s place should Seumalo not be able to play.
Given the green light Thursday to play against Indianapolis were receiver Diontae Johnson (knee), running back Najee Harris (knee), inside linebacker Elandon Roberts (groin), defensive linemen Keeanu Benton (oblique) and Cam Heyward (groin), cornerback James Pierre (shoulder) and Watt (concussion).
All had missed practice time this week. Aside from Johnson and Watt, the injuries affecting them date to before the New England game.
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