Pro Football weekly

The Pittsburgh Steelers have activated offensive tackle Max Starks from the physically unable to perform list Tuesday.||||||| Starks, signed by the Steelers just before the start of training camp, missed the first two weeks of practice while rehabbing from a torn ACL in his right knee. The eight-year veteran is expected to battle for the starting left tackle spot.

The Steelers re-signed Starks to a one-year deal on Tuesday, hoping his surgically repaired knee is healed and his leadership can help one of the NFL's youngest lines provide better protection for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.||||||| Terms were not disclosed, but Starks gives the Steelers insurance if rookie Mike Adams isn't quite ready play with the first team. Fantasy owners of Roethlisberger, however, should be worried if Starks gets regular playing time since the injury-plagued Starks is more than likely past his prime.

Signed Tuesday, Starks will apparently start at left tackle against the Tennessee Titans (3-1) on Sunday.||||||| Counting the preseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers will have used nine different combinations of starting offensive linemen in nine games this season.

Veteran tackle Max Starks has been released by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Teams officially could cut players Thursday, and the Steelers got started early in the day.||||||| Starks was drafted by the Steelers in the third round (75th overall) in 2004. He started 68 games in his seven seasons in Pittsburgh, including seven in 2010 before being placed on injured reserve with a neck problem. Starks started two Super Bowls for the Steelers.