The two stalwarts of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense — James Harrison and Troy Polamalu — will see their first action of the preseason on Thursday night when the Steelers take on the Philadelphia Eagles in both teams’ second preseason game.
Polamalu has been slowly but surely rehabbing a slight tear in his Achilles tendon that he sustained last December. Harrison, meanwhile, is recovering from back surgery this spring, the second time he’s had his back operated on. It will be fun for fans to get to see the 2008 and 2010 Defensive Players of the Year suit up even for limited action, but obviously Steeler Nation is more interested in both being ready to go for the regular season opener on September 11th.
Seven players have been ruled out for the game against Philly, including three starters – cornerbacks Ike Taylor (thumb) and Bryant McFadden (hamstring/quad) and guard Chris Kemoeatu (knee). The non-starters who will sit this one out include: Crezdon Butler (quad) and Cortez Allen (hamstring), wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (foot) and inside linebacker Mario Harvey (leg).
Kickoff at Heinz Field is at 8:00 pm EST on Thursday. The game will be televised nationally on FOX. For more Steelers news, analysis and fan discussion, check out Behind the Steel Curtain.