"High ankle sprains won`t keep quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and center Maurkice Pouncey from playing next Monday night when the Steelers visit San Francisco.

That is what Pouncey said following the Steelers` first practice since a 14-3 win over the Browns last Thursday night.

Both Roethlisberger and Pouncey got hurt in the game, and only Roethlisberger returned from his ankle injury.

"We`re both fine," Pouncey said. "We`ll be alright to go on Monday Night Football."

Roethlisberger, who has a walking boot on his left foot, was at Steelers` headquarters today but he did not attend practice. Pouncey had been in a walking boot, but he said today that his left ankle has progressed to the point that he doesn`t need the extra protection."