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Tomlin: Parker Expected To Play Sunday

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Nov 11, 2008 2:55 pm US/Eastern

Tomlin: Parker Expected To Play Sunday

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―

Click to enlarge 1 of 1: Willie Parker No. 39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers tries to get around a fourth quarter tackle by Brodney Pool No. 21 of the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 14, 2008, at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland.
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Steelers running back Willie Parker is expected to practice this week and play against San Diego next Sunday.

Parker is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in the Week 9 game against the Washington Redskins.

At his weekly press conference, Mike Tomlin said Parker was evaluated by team doctors this morning and they intend to fit him with a shoulder harness. Tomlin also dispelled rumors that Parker is also dealing with a ongoing knee injury, saying "the knee is a non-issue."

Tomlin also announced another key injury today: Cornerback Deshea Townsend will be out with a hamstring injury. With Townsend and McFadden (broken forearm) both out for next Sunday, the Steelers signed cornerback Fernando Bryant to add depth to the troubled secondary.

Bryant has spent 10 seasons in the NFL, playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions. Bryant arrived in Pittsburgh last night and is expected to begin practicing with the team immediately. Tomlin characterized Bryant as a "sharp guy" and "veteran football player."

As for other injuries, tight end Heath Miller is listed as questionable and is expected to remain out of the lineup at least one more week with an injured ankle. Marvel Smith worked out this morning and is expected to practice this week, at the very least. Tomlin listed all other injuries as "bumps and bruises," calling the players' progress "status quo."

The Steelers play the San Diego Chargers on Sunday. Tomlin said the Chargers are a challenging team offensively, praising the talent of quarterback Phillip Rivers, wide receiver Antonio Gates, and running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who Tomlin said is "arguably the best in the world at what he does."

The Chargers are 4-5 on the season.

Sunday's game is at Heinz Field at 4:15pm.