The Steelers host the Chiefs on Sunday in a game that’s vital for both team’s chances of making the playoffs and it looks like the Steelers are going to have to try to win it without safety Troy Polamalu.
Polamalu has been out of practice all week after hurting his knee against the Falcons in last weekend’s Steelers win and the team listed him as doubtful for the matchup with Kansas City. By definition, that means he has a 25 percent chance of getting on the field although his lack of practice time and previous knee issues this season likely drop that even lower.
Polamalu missed two games earlier this year because of knee problems and he’s generally looked like a less effective player this year than he has over the course of his career. That may lead to some tough decisions about his future come the offseason as Polamalu is signed for two more years at salaries calling for more than he’s shown this season.
Cornerback Ike Taylor is also doubtful because of a variety of injuries and tight end Matt Spaeth is questionable because of an elbow injury.
