In boost for run defense, special teams, LB Malik Harrison nears return to Steelers lineup

In an under-the-radar shot in the arm for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ run defense and special teams unit, Malik Harrison could be on track for a return to the lineup Sunday.

Harrison, a 247-pound inside linebacker, wrapped up a full week of full practices Friday. That indicates he could be activated off the injured reserve list in time for the upcoming home game against the Green Bay Packers, although Harrison’s designation for Sunday on the league-mandated status report is “questionable.”

“I feel good. I feel back to normal,” Harrison said Friday at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. “My knee doesn’t hurt anymore. I’m just ready to get back out there.”

Brought in via a two-year, $10 million contract in March, Harrison effectively was projected as the replacement for veteran Elandon Roberts in the Steelers’ linebacking corps. Roberts, over the past two years, was the designated “run-stuffer” of the Steelers’ ILBs, a role Harrison showed he could be adept at over 76 games (34 starts) the past five seasons with the Baltimore Ravens.

But Harrison suffered a knee injury during the season-opening win at the New York Jets and was placed on IR the ensuing week.

But Harrison returned to practice last week, opening up a 21-day window during which he must be returned to the 53-man roster. Harrison was a limited practice participant last week but said he felt confident on his knee this week with no issues.

The Steelers have an open spot because of the season-ending injury to Miles Killebrew, their special teams captain. Harrison has an extensive special-teams resume and could help replace Killebrew on several special-teams units.

“This is my sixth year, so I’ve got a lot of experience, and on the special teams side especially,” Harrison said. “I’m even in the meeting rooms this whole time I’ve been out, giving advice to guys, especially talking to the young guys, telling them what I see and things like that.”

But while special teams prowess cannot be over-emphasized, Harrison’s biggest boost to the Steelers might come on defense. During their most recent game Oct. 16 the Steelers allowed a season-high for an opponent at 6.5 yards per carry to a Cincinnati Bengals team that is last in the NFL in rushing offense.

Harrison, who also can play outside linebacker, in recent years earned a reputation as being stout against the run. That could come in good use for the Steelers against Green Bay’s Josh Jacobs, who has 23 touchdowns in 23 games over the past two seasons.

“That’s what they brought me here for,” Harrison said. “I’m a physical guy. I feel like I stop the run excellent. So, that’s what I came here for.”