Steelers Defensive Starter Unexpectedly Misses Practice with Injury

 Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen did not practice on Thursday with a groin injury, the team announced as part of its official injury report.

Queen had been a full participant on Wednesday and did not mention the injury when speaking with the Pittsburgh media before practice on Thursday. Rookie Payton Wilson and veteran Elandon Roberts would both likely see an increase in reps if Queen is unable to play this Sunday against the Denver Broncos. Queen’s status on Friday should be closely monitored.

Otherwise, the injury report contained positive news for the Steelers, as rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson was a full participant in practice for the first time since suffering a sprain ankle on the first day of padded practices during training camp at St. Vincent College.

Also participating in full on Thursday were left tackle Dan Moore Jr., who missed Wednesday’s session with ankle inflammation, and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, who was held out n Wednesday with a knee issue.

Two players were limited in practice on Thursday: quarterback Russell Wilson and cornerback Darius Rush. Wilson said he still has boxes to check physically before he can start to think about a return to action. Rush remains in the concussion protocol.

Left guard Isaac Seumalo (pec) remains out. Defensive tackle Cam Heyward was given the day off on Thursday.