Linebacker Lawrence Timmons returned to practice today for the first time in more than three weeks, then eased off after his left ankle was injured again.

Wide receiver Limas Sweed also left practice with a mid-foot sprain. Their availability for Sunday's game is in question.

Timmons has a high left ankle sprain that was injured in the second preseason game Aug. 22 at Washington. He pulled on his uniform and pads today and joined his teammates for a regular practice, but "tweaked" the left ankle during the afternoon drill.

Sweed and Timmons were listed as having limited participation on the Steelers' official injury report.

Tyrone Carter, who will start for injured strong safety Troy Polamalu, was excused from yesterday's practice for personal reasons. He should rejoin the team Thursday and his status for Sunday's game is not affected.

Veterans Aaron Smith and Hines Ward were held out of practice as normal procedure on Wednesday.

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