Travis

Kirschke

Outside of Troy Polamalu, Smith is quite possibly the MVP of Pittsburgh’s defense because of his versatility, so it’s a brutal loss for the Steelers heading down the closing stretch. Tomlin did not name a replacement, but veteran backups Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason should see additional snaps.

Kirschke gets a two-year $2.28 million deal. He showed some signs of decline while filling in for an injured Aaron Smith last season, but he’s been a quality backup defensive end for Pittsburgh since 2004.

Taylor was forced out with the injury against the Jaguars. Great news for a Steelers secondary that has been torched the last two games and faces Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce this week. DE Travis Kirschke (ribs) and Clark Haggans (knee) also practiced, though Haggans is listed as questionable.

The $6.4 million deal includes a $1.1 million signing bonus. It also means that the Patriots will officially acquire DT Rodney Bailey tomorrow. Bailey was signed to a $1.3 million offer sheet last week by New England.

The Steelers are awaiting test results and should have a better idea on Smith’s status later in the day. The star defensive end suffered the injury during last week’s game against the Lions, and coach Mike Tomlin believes it could keep him out for awhile. Travis Kirschke and impressive rookie Ziggy Hood stand to pick up playing time as Smith’s replacements.

The Steelers are getting healthier at other positions, but will still be hard pressed to carry Smith on the roster into mid-January. Travis Kirschke will likely move into the starting lineup at strong-side end, with rookie Ziggy Hood and Nick Eason rotating in. Smith is 33, but still a highly effective run stopper with some pass-rush ability. His loss is significant.