Maurkice Pouncey

As is his brother Mike. Maurkice spent his entire career in Pittsburgh. The Pounceys leave the league at 31 years old. Maurkice was drafted No. 18 overall by the Steelers in 2010, while Mike went 15th overall to the Dolphins in 2011 and played two seasons for the Chargers. Maurkice's retirement saves the Steelers $8 million in cap space, and raises some questions about Ben Roethlisberger's return, as Pouncey — a nine-time Pro Bowler — and Roethlisberger talked often about playing as long as other. A chronic hip injury ended Mike's final NFL season in September, when the Chargers placed him on injured reserve following surgery. Mike was scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent. 

Pouncey spent the last 10 days on the COVID list. He'll return to the lineup after sitting out Week 13. Getting Pouncey back will improve a run game that had 21 yards on 14 carries last week. The Steelers will also have James Conner (COVID-19) back in Week 14.

He's out for Wednesday afternoon's clash with the Ravens. If he tested positive, Pouncey is also in danger of missing Week 13. He's started every game at the pivot for the Steelers this season. JC Hassenauer will start today.

Pouncey was forced out of Week 16's loss to the Jets in the fourth quarter, and he'll be required to miss at least Week 17 as he works to recover. B.J. Finney is expected to slot in as Pittsburgh's starting center as long as Pouncey is unable to go.