Despite reports that Ben Roethlisberger could miss 4-6 weeks following a meniscus repair in his left knee, numerous team sources indicated the Pro Bowl quarterback will be back well before then. Roethlisberger has been ruled out for Sunday's game, but could be back to face Baltimore in Week 9, sources said, following a bye.
Team officials are optimistic he could face the Ravens and would be surprised if Roethlisberger missed more than two games barring an unforeseen setback. It is conceivable Roethlisberger could play Week 9 even if he misses much of practice that week, and the team in all likelihood will see how he feels Friday and Saturday of that week before a final decision is made.
The Steelers have no plans to work out additional quarterbacks or acquire a veteran -- something they would consider if they expected Roethlisberger to miss a month or more -- and will start backup Landry Jones in the interim. If Jones struggles, one team source indicated a move to strong-armed Zach Mettenberger may not be far off.
