Do not expect to see any of the Steelers' top offensive performers when they open the preseason against the Detroit Lions on Friday night at Heinz Field.
Coach Mike Tomlin said Wednesday it can be "generally assumed" quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, wide receiver Antonio Brown, center Maurkice Pouncey and running backs Le'Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams will not play against the Lions.
He also said players who are injured or missed time because of injuries also won't play in the preseason opener, including rookie No. 1 pick Artie Burns and wide receiver Markus Wheaton.
Tomlin said his primary objective for the first preseason game is to see the Steelers develop into a tough team to beat.
"By that I mean we play fundamentally sound and keep penalties to a minimum, that we take care of the football," Tomlin said Wednesday morning at Saint Vincent College. "Those who handle the football, ball security, is paramount. If you're going to be a tough team to beat, you've got to do a good job in that area."
