PITTSBURGH -- Steelers wide receiver Eli Rogers was a healthy scratch last week against the New England Patriots for a violation of a team rule, according to sources.
Rogers did not play a snap in Sunday's 27-16 loss, and he referred to his absence as a "coach's decision," declining to elaborate. Rogers, who won the starting slot receiver job in the preseason, said he expects to be back on the field for Week 9 against the Baltimore Ravens.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette first reported Rogers' inactivity was due to discipline from coach Mike Tomlin.
Rogers has 13 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown. He also missed two games with a turf toe.
"He just has to do the little things," offensive coordinator Todd Haley said. "He has to show he's accountable and that we can trust him and that he's the same guy every day. If he does that, he's shown he can do the things on the field necessary to make plays and help us."