Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers sit struggling rookie WR Washington vs Chargers

Published Dec. 2, 2018 7:10 p.m. ET

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Steelers sat down struggling rookie wide receiver James Washington for Sunday night's game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Washington, a second-round draft pick, has just eight receptions on the season. He was targeted three times in last week's loss to Denver and did not have a reception.

Pittsburgh starting right tackle Marcus Gilbert will miss his sixth straight game with a knee injury. Safety Morgan Burnett (back) is also out. Quarterback Mason Rudolph, cornerback Cam Sutton, offensive tackle Zach Banner and defensive end L.T. Walton are also inactive for the Steelers.

Defensive end Stephon Tuitt, who missed the last two games with an elbow injury, will play.

The Chargers will be without running back Melvin Gordon, who is dealing with a knee injury. Austin Ekeler will start in Gordon's place.

Cornerback Jeff Richards, defensive end Chris Landrum, center Cole Toner, offensive tackle Joe Barksdale, guard Forrest Lamp and nose tackle Brandon Mebane are also inactive for Los Angeles.