PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison has been cleared to play against San Francisco this week despite being carried off the field on a stretcher during Sunday's game against Buffalo.
Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday the news on Harrison was "very good" and that Harrison was diagnosed with a stiff neck.
Harrison may be held back during practice Wednesday, but can play Sunday, Tomlin said.
Harrison, an undrafted free agent who has replaced Joey Porter at right outside linebacker, was hurt on Marshawn Lynch's 8-yard carry that ended the second quarter.
Harrison, caught in a pileup, rammed his head into teammate Casey Hampton's back as Lynch was tackled by Brett Keisel and Clark Haggans. He lay motionless briefly as the Steelers delayed a halftime tribute to some of their former stars until Harrison was taken off the field.
After being examined by doctors for a few minutes, Harrison returned to the sideline midway through the third quarter, but did not play again as the Steelers won 26-3.
Through two games, Harrison has two sacks and is second on the team with 10 tackles.
Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press