Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Montravius Adams was activated Friday, meaning for the time being the number of players on the covid-19 list is shrinking rather than growing — a positive development 48 hours before their game at the Kansas City Chiefs.
Adams missed this past Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans because he was on the list, presumably because he had tested positive. Signed late last month, Adams has helped add veteran stability to the Steelers’ injury-depleted defensive line.
Five Steelers players remain on the covid list: inside linebackers Devin Bush and Marcus Allen, offensive tackle Zach Banner, defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs and running back Anthony McFarland Jr. Of that group, only Bush is a full-time starter, although Buggs is the top alternative to Adams at nose tackle, so Adams getting cleared is helpful to the Steelers.
Under NFL protocols modified last week, it is not impossible for any of the five to be cleared before Sunday. However, the lack of practice potentially could mean they won’t play anyway.
The Chiefs reportedly have nine players from their active roster on their covid list, including stars Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill. Punter Tommy Townsend was added Friday, and the Chiefs reportedly will add his brother, Johnny, to the active roster to punt against the Steelers. Backup tight end Blake Bell was activated off the covid list Friday.
The only player who reportedly is assured of not playing is kicker Harrison Butker, because he is not vaccinated and therefore must isolate for 10 days.
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