Steelers' Watt slated to play vs. Ravens; Pickens out again

Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher T.J. Watt has no injury designation, putting him on course to play Saturday against the Baltimore Ravens despite an ankle problem, the team announced Thursday.

Wide receiver George Pickens will miss his third consecutive game because of a hamstring injury. Backup quarterback Justin Fields is also out with an abdominal injury. Safety DeShon Elliott is doubtful because of a hamstring issue while defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi is questionable with a groin problem. Elliott and Ogunjobi missed last week's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Watt was a limited participant in practice Wednesday before ramping up to be a full participant Thursday.

The pass-rusher suffered a low ankle injury in the 27-13 loss to the Eagles and didn't finish the game. However, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters Monday that he was "optimistic" about Watt's availability against the Ravens.

Watt is among the top candidates to win Defensive Player of the Year after notching 11.5 sacks and a league-leading six forced fumbles this season.

The 10-4 Steelers will clinch the AFC North with a victory against the 9-5 Ravens.