Cortez

Allen

“We drafted them a year ago with the potential of these things in mind,” said Tomlin. Keenan Lewis is first up on the depth chart, however, after impressing as the nickel back last season. While Tomlin is giving the early “nod” to Lewis, all three are in the mix.

Taking over Bryant McFadden’s starting job, Gay had a nice bounce-back season before allowing a 30-yard TD to Eddie Royal in the playoff loss. The Steelers are impressed with nickel corner Keenan Lewis, though, and may look to expand his role with Curtis Brown and Cortez Allen entering in sub-packages. McFadden is not expected back.

The Steelers have no plans to sign a running back “at this time,” though Chad Spann could be promoted from the practice squad if Moore can’t practice by Friday. Moore’s playoff draft stock takes a hit due to his uncertain status.

Lewis has reportedly had a “strong camp” and “impressed coaches” with his knowledge of the scheme. He’ll start the season ahead of Cortez Allen, who slides in as the nickel back behind RCB Ike Taylor and Lewis.

Per the Beaver County Times, the Steelers believe Allen “can be a star.” The 2011 fourth-round pick was burned twice in the first half against the Ravens, but bounced back in the second half as the Steelers’ secondary shut down Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith. Curtis Brown will slide into Allen’s old nickel corner role while Taylor rehabs.

Per reporter Mark Kaboly, the Steelers believe Allen has enough speed to cover outside receivers, and the size to cover tight ends. A 2011 fourth-rounder, Allen stands in at 6-foot-1, 196 pounds with 4.51 wheels. He’s taking Keenan Lewis’ spot in the starting lineup at left corner. Allen played 563 snaps last season, grading out positively in Pro Football Focus’ ratings.

The matchup for the Cowboys passing game keeps getting better. While Lewis is expected to play Sunday, Allen’s status is in question. Third cornerback Curtis Brown was benched for ineffectiveness last week after getting toasted by Bolts slot receiver Michael Spurlock.

ESPN AFC North blogger Jamison Hensley considers Lewis “difficult” for the Steelers to retain because they’re tight up against the cap and he’s a “rising player at a coveted position.” Allen appeared in all 15 games last season, starting three and forcing five turnovers (three forced fumbles, two interceptions).

Lewis departed in March to sign a five-year, $26 million deal with the Saints. Allen offers better playmaking ability, length, and speed than Lewis and the Steelers have always been believers of replacing -- often upgrading -- from within. Only 24, Allen is coming off a season where he notched two picks and three forced fumbles in just 563 snaps. He’s going to start at left corner.

Allen didn’t practice all week and remains day to day. Curtis Brown (illness) is also not expected to play and listed as doubtful. William Gay will start at left cornerback, with rookie SS Shamarko Thomas moving into the slot in nickel packages.