PITTSBURGH -- Ben Roethlisberger jogged off the practice field Thursday, guard Ramon Foster confirmed, another sign that the Steelers quarterback is progressing well from a sprained left MCL and a bone bruise.
No, he's not ready to play this week. He was observing practice in casual clothes. Teammates even teased Roethlisberger about the job, saying "Don't do that, 7," Foster recalled. Early reports called for a late-October or early-November return to action.
But Roethlisberger hasn't had any setbacks since hurting the knee 11 days ago in St. Louis. And quarterback Michael Vick said it was "absolutely" good to see Roethlisberger tossing the ball around at practice.
Roethlisberger said this week on Pittsburgh 93.7 The Fan that team doctors are pleased with his rehab but he's not setting a timetable for return. It's truly week to week, he said.
In 11 quarters this season, Roethlisberger has thrown for 912 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions while completing 75.3 percent of his passes.