Kendrick Green missed another practice Friday, making it more likely the rookie center will miss the first start of his career and J.C. Hassenauer will be the Pittsburgh Steelers’ center for their game Monday.

Green has missed both practices this week after suffering a calf injury during last week’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Barring a significant turn of events — being cleared to practice fully Saturday — Hassenauer will make his sixth career NFL start and second start of the season when the Steelers face the Cleveland Browns.

A former undrafted player out of Alabama who has been part of the Steelers organization since early 2019, Hassenauer’s other start in 2021 was at left guard.

“This is my third year with (quarterback Ben Roethlisberger), so just over time that natural relationship builds,” Hassenauer said. “That chemistry is developed significantly, and I feel very confident and I think he has confidence in me as well.”

— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) December 31, 2021

Hassenauer is a natural center. Green played more guard in college and has struggled with his snaps (as well as his blocking) this season.

Also missing practice Friday was rookie linebacker Buddy Johnson, who missed the past two games because of a foot injury. Normally that would not be of much significance, but both Steelers starting inside linebackers are on the covid-19 list.

Tight end Pat Freiermuth again practiced fully Friday, another indication he has progressed through concussion protocol and can return to game action after sitting out the Chiefs game.

Punter Pressley Harvin III continues to be away from the team after the Christmas Day death of his father.

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