PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have ruled out three players against the Cincinnati Bengals . Cornerback Darius Slay did not clear concussion protocol and will be out, meanwhile edge rusher Alex Highsmith has a pec injury that will keep him out. Linebacker Cole Holcomb will miss a third straight game with an illness.

Slay suffered the injury against the Los Angeles Chargers, and this puts James Pierre in line to start against the Bengals. It would be his first start of the season, though he has shined when he has played this year. Brandin Echols and Joey Porter Jr. are expected to start.

Highsmith popped up with a pec injury on Wednesday and did not practice all week. He will be replaced by Nick Herbig, who has started three games this season for the Steelers. Meanwhile, guard

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