Steelers Now
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey missed practice on Thursday with an illness, the team announced after its Christmas Day practice session at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
Ramsey did not practice with an undisclosed illness, the third defensive back to be less than a full participant, joining slot cornerback Brandin Echols, who did not practice with a groin injury, and outside cornerback James Pierre, who continues to be limited by a calf.
Ramsey’s status on Friday will be key to see if the Pro Bowl safety is able to play this Sunday, when the Steelers visit the Cleveland Browns for their Week 17 AFC North showdown.
If Ramsey is unable to play, Chuck Clark would be in line to start at free safety. Asante Samuel Jr. started the last two games in place of Pierre, while Daryl Porter Jr. made his NFL debut and could be the next man up at slot cornerback if all of Pierre, Ramsey and Echols are unable to play. The other option would be recently signed cornerback Tre Flowers.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Steelers Defensive Back Jalen Ramsey Misses Practice
