All of SteelerNation has been patiently waiting to hear the news that offensive tackle Zach Banner has finally returned to practice for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Wednesday.
This is great news for the entire Steelers offense for all the obvious reasons: from the struggling running game, to the miscommunications in pass protection, etc. However, it is also huge as Chukwuma Okorafor is currently in the league's concussion protocol after leaving the game against the Cincinnati Bengals this past weekend.
Just because Banner has begun practicing however, does not mean he will immediately be playing this week against the Green Bay Packers.
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Banner returning to practice means the clock has started on his 21 day practice window before the Steelers have to decide to activate him to the team's 53-man roster, or have him shut down for the rest of the season.
Banner missed almost all of the 2020 season with an ACL injury in his right knee, and is now over a year from his injury as he suffered a set back during the preseason.
It remains unclear if Banner will be activated and suit up for the upcoming road matchup against the Packers. He could definitely be used with Okorafor potentially missing the contest, but the Steelers could elect to bring Banner back slowly.
Regardless of his status for Week 4, it is definitely exciting to hear that Banner has returned to the practice field. Let us know your thoughts on Banner's return below!
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