PITTSBURGH -- One of the league's most banged-up teams is embracing the bye week to get right, using various methods to do so.

Pittsburgh Steelers ide receiver Markus Wheaton talked about returning from a shoulder injury while holding a bottle with an orange liquid. He confirmed he has been chugging the children's drink Pedialyte for the adult benefits.

"Helps with hydration," said Wheaton, who plans to return to game action after missing four games with an AC joint issue.

The range of motion has finally returned to Wheaton's shoulder. Defensive end Cameron Heyward is working on his range, too. He told reporters he ran about 20 sprints during Wednesday's light practice. Heyward has missed two games with a hamstring issue.

"I got to be here rehabbing and doing as much cardio as possible," Heyward said.

The Steelers hope to get several starters back for Week 9 against the Baltimore Ravens, including one of the game's best right tackles, Marcus Gilbert, who suffered a midfoot and high ankle sprain in a win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4.

The recovery spotlight will be squarely on Ben Roethlisberger, who did some light throwing this week. On Wednesday, Roethlisberger was seen throwing a rugby ball, kicking the rugby ball with his right knee and throwing a football.

Tight end Ladarius Green made his two-practice debut this week. He showcased his pass-catching ability and will spend extra time during the bye week at the Steelers' facility.

A little extra time. He has to get away, too. He estimates he has spent hundreds of hours rehabbing his ankle in the last few months.