Steelers Safety Clark Will Not Play In Denver

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense is expected to be without three starters against the Denver Broncos: DE Travis Kirschke(notes), ILB Lawrence Timmons(notes) and S Ryan Clark(notes).

Clark will be held out because he has the sickle-cell trait, which could jeopardize his health when exerting himself in Denver's high altitude. Tyrone Carter(notes), a backup strong safety, will take Clark's spot.

Nick Eason(notes) will start at left defensive end for Kirschke and will be spelled by No. 1 pick Ziggy Hood.

But nose tackle Chris Hoke(notes) has been taking more and more snaps at defensive end and could actually see some time there while Kirschke is out. Right now, he would only be used in an emergency if another defensive end were to get injured.

Also, Limas Sweed(notes), who has been beset with drop problems, will be the fourth receiver against the Broncos. He is getting another chance because  he has looked good in practice the past couple weeks, according to the coaches.

—Gerry Dulac
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