Mike Wallace's transition back to the Pittsburgh Steelers might not be easy, but don't expect him to miss any game action. Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haleyexpects Wallace to play in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos.
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"You're talking about a guy who's a wide receiver, a pass-catcher," Haley said Tuesday via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "It's not a running back or someone who has to be in the action of the game. I think it's feasible he's ready to go when we start this thing up."
Wallace's snaps could be limited initially, but Haley raises a good point. Wallace doesn't need to get used to being hit on every play. He just needs to run. He says he's ready.
"I'm not worried about down the road," Wallace said Tuesday. "I'm just worried about playing football right now. That's the only thing on my mind. Y'all might think I'm just saying that, but that's it. I'm not worried about none of that."
Gerry Dulac of the Post-Gazette writes that the Steelers could "stretch" their usual rule about not negotiating with players during the season, but only if they feel that progress is being made with Wallace on a new deal. All reports have previously indicated that the two sides are far apart on an agreement.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
