Ben Roethlisberger's status for Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens remains a matter of debate. Coach Mike Tomlin said he was leaving the door open for Roethlisberger's return, but he made it sound like Charlie Batch would get the call to start a second consecutive game.
CBS Sports indicated Roethlisberger had a good chance to make it back, but the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is telling a much different story.
A source close to Roethlisberger told Gerry Dulac that he would be "shocked" if Roethlisberger played against the Ravens and expects him to miss another game. The source said it wasn't about pain tolerance, rather there are big doubts about how well Roethlisberger can perform through his dislocated rib and shoulder sprain.
The Steelers will have to start untested rookie Kelvin Beachum at right tackle because fellow rookie Mike Adams is out. The team also placed Marcus Gilbert on injured reserve. The Steelers might be anxious putting Roethlisberger out on the field before he's ready to play, especially behind such a shaky offensive line.
The Steelers are hopeful that safety Troy Polamalu (calf) and wide receiver Antonio Brown (ankle) will return for the game.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
