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The Pittsburgh Steelers may have the NFL's best offense already, but it could actually be getting a substantial boost soon. Dynamic tight end Ladarius Green, the club's top free-agent signing, is poised to be activated off the PUP list soon, sources said, adding another dimension to a prolific passing game.

The Steelers targeted Green, who was overshadowed by tight end Antonio Gates in San Diego, as the prime option to add speed and a downfield threat at tight end after the retirement of stalwart Heath Miller. Green had a pre-existing ankle injury that the Steelers knew would threaten his preseason at the time they signed him, but both the player and team expect Green to return to practice next week. Team officials are optimistic about the gains Green has made, and the tight end is adamant that he can make an impact for the Steelers in the coming weeks.

Green has also suffered from headaches dating back to his time in San Diego, but sources said he is not in the league's concussion protocol and is ready to pass a physical for the ankle injury and begin practicing. He has been working out on his own, rigorously, during his stint on the physically-unable-to-perform list, and does not believe he will need more than a week or two to return to game action. Should post-concussion symptoms occur when he returns to practice and/or games, then Green would be subject to the protocol.

Ladarius Green is expected to return to Steelers practice next week. USATSI

Green would provide yet another vertical option to a passing game that has several matchup issues for defenses already. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley has a reputation for maximizing his tight ends, and the group has already been thriving despite lacking a household name.

Green has told various members of the organization he believes he is close to returning and definitely expects to contribute this season. Once a player returns to practice from the PUP list, teams have a three-week window to add him to the active roster.