After losing starting job to Joey Porter Jr., Steelers CB Levi Wallace remains limited with foot injury

Levi Wallace already lost his starting job at left outside cornerback to rookie Joey Porter Jr. The question heading into the Pittsburgh Steelers’ game Thursday night is whether Wallace will be healthy enough to play as a backup.

It continues to be an unlikely proposition.

Wallace was limited in practice Tuesday with a foot injury, reducing his chances of playing against the Tennessee Titans in prime time.

Wallace missed the Steelers’ game Sunday at Jacksonville because of his foot ailment, and Porter played well enough to grab the starting job, coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Monday and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin reiterated Tuesday.

“I’ve said he’s growing, he’s getting better,” Austin said. “And when it’s time, you’ll know it. I think it was his time. I think each week we’ve played him, he’s played a larger role. He’s played better. He’s doing the things that we wanted him to do, and we feel comfortable now that he’s able to handle everything. That’s why he’s the guy.”

If Wallace is unable to play Thursday, James Pierre will be the top backup cornerback. He played nine snaps against the Jaguars. Rookie Darius Rush also is likely to get a helmet for the second consecutive game. Although he dressed, Rush didn’t get into the game Sunday.

Quarterback Kenny Pickett (ribs) also was limited in practice, and free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who has been ruled out from playing against the Titans, did not practice.

Safety Damontae Kazee (hand), running back Anthony McFarland (knee) and defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (groin) were full participants. McFarland and Heyward are candidates to be activated from injured reserve.

The Steelers will release a final injury report Wednesday.