PITTSBURGH -- Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger refused to rule out playing in Sunday's game because of a mid-foot sprain and might be taking a step toward convincing the Pittsburgh Steelers he's capable of functioning behind center.
Roethlisberger is out of the protective walking boot he required to get around Sunday after he was hurt on a sack by Oakland Raiders pass rusher Aldon Smith. Roethlibserger had been told he'd miss a few weeks. With the Steelers on bye next Sunday, putting him in harm's way this week against the Cleveland Browns might be risky. ESPN first reported Thursday Big Ben was bootless.