National Football League

Polamalu unlikely to suit up vs Jets

Published Dec. 17, 2010 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu is not expected to play Sunday against the Jets after aggravating a lower leg injury, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported Friday.

Polamalu, notorious for making game-changing plays, suffered the injury in last Sunday's 23-7 win over Cincinnati while running an interception back for a touchdown.

The five-time Pro Bowler played through the injury in the second half, even intercepting a second pass late in the fourth quarter.

During that play, he attempted an ill-conceived lateral that angered defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. But many of his teammates believe he tried to lateral because of the pain in his lower leg.

The 29-year-old Polamalu has four interceptions in the last four games -- all Pittsburgh victories -- and a team-high six this season.

Polamalu's injury is welcome news for Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez, who has failed to lead his team to an offensive touchdown, while throwing four interceptions, in losses to New England and Miami.