Steelers suspend rookie two games

Associated Press

PITTSBURGH

The Pittsburgh Steelers will have to turn around their season without any help from rookie nose tackle Alameda Ta’amu.

The team suspended Ta’amu two games without pay on Tuesday following his arrest over the weekend following a late-night run-in with police. The fourth-round draft pick faces three felony counts — fleeing police, aggravated assault and aggravated assault by vehicle — among a dozen other charges.

Calling Ta’amu’s behavior a “detriment to our efforts,” coach Mike Tomlin said Ta’amu is barred from the team’s facility during the suspension, which could be lifted before the Steelers (2-3) play the New York Giants Nov. 4. Ta’amu will have a preliminary hearing on the matter next Monday.

“We thought it was very important that we act and act quickly in addressing this,” Tomlin said. “Obviously it’s a disturbing incident, one we take very seriously.”

Ta’amu’s teammates pledged their support on Monday but added they won’t let his situation become a distraction. The Steelers have their hands full as it is heading into Sunday night’s game against Cincinnati (3-3).

Pittsburgh is winless on the road, including a 26-23 loss at Tennessee last Thursday that gutted the offensive line and assured the Steelers of their worst start in Tomlin’s six-year tenure.

While Tomlin is optimistic center Maurkice Pouncey — who left the Titans game early with a right leg injury — will be ready, right tackle Marcus Gilbert is out. Gilbert has a tendon issue in his left ankle but does not require surgery. Rookie Mike Adams will make his first NFL start in Gilbert’s place.

Tomlin also ruled safety Troy Polamalu (strained right calf) and linebacker Chris Carter (hamstring) out.