PITTSBURGH – Tony Romo might have been a full participant in practice this week, but he will once again be inactive as the Cowboys get set to face the Steelers on Sunday.
Romo was officially ruled out of the Week 10 tilt against Pittsburgh, joined by Morris Claiborne, Darius Jackson, Barry Church, Mark Nzeocha, Chaz Green and Benson Mayowa.
On the surface, it's not new that Romo won't be available to play against the Steelers, given that he hasn't yet been active for a game this season. It's a bit more newsworthy considering that Romo practiced fully all week and is considered healthy enough to play.
There was speculation all week that Romo might appear in uniform as the Cowboys' backup quarterback, but the team has opted instead for Mark Sanchez – though Romo's status will undoubtedly be a topic of conversation from this point forward.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys enjoyed some good fortune this week as Ron Leary was healthy enough to practice on Friday and will play against Pittsburgh. Leary left the win against Cleveland last week with a head injury, but he later said it was only precautionary. While Leary will be available to start at left guard, the Cowboys will once again be without Chaz Green this week.
Green practiced on a limited basis this week, but he sat out on Friday and did not travel with the team. He has been dealing with a foot injury since the Oct. 2 win against San Francisco, and the injury report also lists him with a back problem.
Leon McFadden will make a second-straight appearance on the active roster, as the Dallas defense continues to cope with the absences of Claiborne and Church. Just like last week, look for Anthony Brown and Orlando Scandrick to handle cornerback duties opposite Brandon Carr. Jeff Heath and J.J. Wilcox will help handle the other safety spot alongside Byron Jones.
After a two-week absence with a hamstring injury, defensive end Ryan Davis will also be available against the Steelers. Davis will replace Benson Mayowa in the rotation. Darius Jackson and Mark Nzeocha are also healthy scratches for the afternoon.
Pittsburgh's inactives are wide receiver Markus Wheaton, quarterback Zach Mettenberger, running back DeAngelo Williams, safety Jordan Dangerfield, offensive tackle Brian Mihalik, wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey and defensive end L.T. Walton.
