Trent Richardson (ankle) did not practice Thursday.
Richardson initially thought that he had a serious ankle injury and might need surgery. Those fears were squashed as he was diagnosed with a simple sprain. Still, it wouldn't make much sense for Richardson to play in the finale at far less than 100 percent. Beat writer Tony Grossi says it's "almost official" that he'll be inactive. Look for Montario Hardesty to start and Brandon Jackson to work as the change-of--pace back against the Steelers' No. 2 run defense.