Mike Tomlin projects return of OLB Alex Highsmith, CB Joey Porter Jr. against Browns

Coach Mike Tomlin is encouraged about getting two of his injured starters back Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers return from their bye and play the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium.

Tomlin said the “arrow is pointing up” on outside linebacker Alex Highsmith returning from a high ankle sprain and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. returning from a hamstring injury.

Highsmith has missed the past two games, and Porter has sat out three in a row. Both players took part in the Steelers “bonus” practice Monday.

“We’ll follow them throughout the week to make sure it continues to move in the appropriate direction,” Tomlin said Tuesday at his weekly news conference. “The same things could be said for Jaylen Warren. He missed the last game, but he looked really good yesterday.”

The fourth-year running back was held out of the game in Dublin against Minnesota with a knee injury, and replacement Kenny Gainwell rushed for 99 yards and two touchdowns in a 24-21 victory for the Steelers (3-1).

Tomlin also isn’t ruling out wide receiver Calvin Austin and cornerback Jalen Ramsey from suiting up against the Browns (1-4). Austin injured his shoulder in the fourth quarter and was taken to a hospital for testing. Ramsey injured his hamstring.

Tomlin said Austin and Ramsey could be “limited at the front part of the week,” but he is hopeful they can practice before the Steelers conclude preparations Friday for the Browns.

“Both have been highly aggressive from a rehabilitation process during the bye week,” Tomlin said. “I’m really encouraged about the potential of those guys.”

The Browns are coming off a 21-17 loss to Minnesota in England. It was the first start for Cleveland rookie QB Dillon Gabriel, who completed 19 of 33 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins ran for 110 yards.