Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

BALTIMORE — The Steelers have ruled out several players against the Baltimore Ravens due to injuries or returns. For one, Elandon Roberts is returning. That will significantly boost the Steelers defense and one they needed. But safeties Trenton Thompson and Minkah Fitzpatrick are still sidelined with neck and knee injuries. Thompson said he will try to return for the playoffs. Fitzpatrick is getting closer.

“I would push for the playoffs,” Thompson said. “If we get into the first round, I would do my best, with the doctors and trainers, to try and get cleared to play and have whatever role I might have.”

Eric Rowe and Patrick Peterson will aid the Steelers in helping fill his void. As for the rest of the inactives, there is little surprise. With Roberts back, Blake Martinez is once again inactive. Myles Jack came up from the practice squad, and they will continue to play him over anyone else alongside Roberts.

Tackle Dylan Cook remains inactive, and he has only played in one game this season. Defensive end DeMarvin Leal is out once again. Isaiahh Loudermilk, who the team spoke of highly this week, will instead play, and likely a fair amount. With the slick field, the Ravens will likely rely upon their run game.

Cornerback Darius Rush will sit again. Mitch Trubisky will work as the team’s emergency third quarterback. Kenny Pickett is back from injury for the first time since he suffered the injury against the Arizona Cardinals.

The Ravens inactives had no surprises. Zay Flowers, who was doubtful, is out. Star safety Kyle Hamilton will not play with a knee injury. While they have only seven as inactives, the Ravens will likely sit other starters with the slick fields, looking to minimize injury conditions against the Steelers in a meaningless game for Baltimore.

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