It's no secret that Steelers LB James Harrison holds a dislike of Roger Goodell. But given a chance to blast the NFL commissioner again on Friday, Harrison took a more diplomatic, measured approach.
Harrison, who has been suspended and fined by Goodell for on-field hits in the past, was asked about Goodell's proposal to eliminate kickoffs in the NFL.
The intimidating former NFL defensive player of the year, appearing conflicted on whether he should speak his mind or stay away from controversy, hemmed and hawed through an answer that left no doubt on which side of the issue he sides -- but also mostly avoided an inflammatory tone.
"I mean, it's... You ever heard of doing too much?" he said. "They're trying to do too much. Um... I don't... I don't know... I don't think it's necessary -- but then again, I'm not the one with the power to make those decisions."
In a 2011 Men's Journal article, Harrison was quoted as using the terms "crook," "devil," "stupid," "puppet" and "dictator" to describe Goodell. He also said: "If that man was on fire and I had to (urinate) to put him out, I wouldn't do it. I hate him and will never respect him."
A Steelers official present for Friday's comments expressed relief afterward that Harrison did not say anything nearly as controversial this time.
Colon likely to return: LG Willie Colon made it through a second consecutive practice without incident and, barring a setback over the weekend, will return to game action Sunday after not playing in the previous two games due to a left knee bruise.
Colon is listed as probable, although it should be noted that the knee swelled up on him during warm-ups of the Nov. 26 game in Cleveland, keeping him out of the game. He was also listed as probable that week. Colon also said on Thursday that he would be a game-time decision.
That all said, it would be highly surprising if Colon did not play against the Chargers. C Maurkice Pouncey moved over to guard last week, and OL Doug Legursky filled in at center.
Full injury report: In addition to OT Mike Adams and CB Ike Taylor, who had long since been ruled out, LB LaMarr Woodley also will not play against the Chargers because of an ankle injury. That isn't the least bit surprising, but word is now official.
QB Byron Leftwich (ribs) is considered questionable -- but that is likely a moot point because he likely will be inactive now that QB Ben Roethlisberger is back and QB Charlie Batch has proven to be a capable backup.
Of the other players listed as probable, the only slight doubts were about S Ryan Clark (hip), WR Jerricho Cotchery (ribs) and Will Johnson (concussion). Clark didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, Johnson needed to prove he could pass concussion tests, and Cotchery is coming back after missing the past two games.
The "Young Money Crew" of WRs Mike Wallace (knee), Antonio Brown (ankle) and Emmanuel Sanders (shoulder) will play, as will P Drew Butler, who missed Thursday due to illness.
As was reported Thursday, S Troy Polamalu practiced for the only time this week on Friday. That will be regular protocol for him the rest of the season. He will play Sunday.
Follow Steelers reporter Chris Adamski on Twitter @CBSSteelers and @BuzzsawPGH.