PITTSBURGH —Pittsburgh outside linebacker Nick Herbig said he's planning to play in Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks . Herbig (hamstring) was inactive in the season opener against the New York Jets .
"I feel good. I'm ready to go. … I'm very optimistic about it," Herbig said.
The third-year edge rusher suffered the hamstring injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the team's second preseason matchup.
During Thursday's Steelers practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Herbig was a full participant ahead of the team's home opener against the Seattle.
In 13 games last season, his second as a pro, Herbig finished with 5.5 sacks and 11 quarterback hits. He made five starts, replacing Alex Highsmith while he dealt with a groin injury.
Behind Herbig, the Steelers have fourth-round rookie Jack Sawyer on their 53-man roster, with DeMarvin Leal eligible to be elevated from the practice squad if the team feels that it needs additional depth. The Steelers almost never go into a game with fewer than four available outside linebackers. Inside linebacker Malik Harrison and defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk have both played on the edge in short stints in the past and could do so in an emergency. Harrison suffered an knee injury against the Jets and was placed on injured reserve earlier this week.
Alan Saunders provided reporting from Pittsburgh.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Key Steelers Defender 'Optimistic' About Playing vs. Seahawks: 'I'm Ready to Go'
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