Move over Timmons, make room for Fox

Well, not permanently.

Lawrence Timmons

Lawrence Timmons needs to sit out this week’s game against the Chicago Bears and make room for Keyaron Fox. Timmons suffered a high ankle sprain in the 1st quarter of opening week against the Tennessee Titans. Although Timmons practiced this week, he tweaked his ankle again during the Wednesday practice. High ankle sprains are known to linger through the season if not rested properly. With the “tweak”, Timmons’ suffered during practice this week; it would be recommended to rest the ankle and let it heal properly before the injury gets worse or doesn’t heal completely.

Lawrence Timmons Jerseys for Cheap

With Timmons out with an injury, expect Keyaron Fox to start and fill in admirably. Fox, a special team’s standout is the top backup at both inside linebacker positions. Fox has been known for his devastating hits on special teams and his very strong run defense at the ILB position. While both are solid players, Fox thrives on run defense while Timmons excels in pass defense. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Keyaron Fox play 1st and 2nd downs and have Lawrence Timmons replace him on obvious passing situations much like last year with Larry Foote. Fox is still unproven in pass

Keyaron Fox

defense much like Timmons is unproven in run defense which is why I would leverage both players in this week’s game if Timmons is “ready to play”.

Chicago Bears’ Matt Forte is one of the top running backs in the league and will be a great test for the Steelers early in the season. Similarly, Bears’ athletic tight end, Greg Olsen will test the Steelers in the middle of the field which will prove to be a great test for Timmons or Fox.

If Lawrence Timmons does play, let’s hope he doesn’t aggravate a very nagging high ankle sprain injury. In the meantime, I think we can live without Timmons while he gets healthy, Keyaron Fox has been a pleasant surprise.