Big Ben aims to play Week 6, but it's a 'long shot'

Ben Roethlisberger wants to play Sunday against his former offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have not ruled out the possibility. But his return against the Arizona Cardinals is considered a long shot, according to sources.

Roethlisberger will miss his second game Monday, when the Steelers play at San Diego, as he continues to recover from a sprained left MCL and bone bruise sustained last month against the Rams.

Meanwhile, Steelers receiver Martavis Bryant was not activated to Pittsburgh's 53-man roster and won't be eligible to play Monday night. Bryant injured his knee during practice last week and is questionable against Arizona, according to a league source.

When Roethlisberger returns, he is expected to wear a knee brace for first time in his NFL career, though he is resistant to the idea. Roethlisberger jogged off the practice field Thursday after observing practice in casual clothes -- another sign he is progressing well. Early reports called for a late October or early November return to action. Roethlisberger hasn't had any setbacks since hurting the knee Sept. 27 at St. Louis.