Word out of Pittsburgh is that Steelers linebacker James Harrison is not yet in game shape for the team’s week one matchup in Baltimore.  Harrison underwent double back surgery during the offseason and played nearly two quarters of the Steelers week three preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.

Gerry Dulac of SportsNews.com reports that Harrison is typically a fast starter as he has registered 24 of his 36 1/2 sacks over the past three seasons in the first half of the year.  The Steelers will likely replace him with second year linebacker and number two draft pick in 2010 Jason Worilds.

For Pittsburgh, this injury may actually help in their matchup against the Ravens.  While you never want to root for an injury, time off the field for Harrison definitely means less 15 yard penalties as he is undisputedly the NFL’s dirtiest player.  Less playing team = less cheap shots.

I suppose Hines Ward will have to pick up the slack.