Overview

• After the bye, Alex Highsmith (high-ankle sprain) and Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring) returned to practice Monday in a bonus session.
• Both told reporters they expect to face the Browns, though Highsmith said final clearance rests with trainers.
• Porter declared he is “back” for Week 6 following two missed games, easing pressure on a pass defense that has lacked consistency.
• With Jalen Ramsey likely sidelined by a hamstring injury, the anticipated cornerback trio is Porter, Darius Slay and Brandin Echols in the slot.
• Nick Herbig’s strong relief run—2.5 sacks, 14 pressures and eight quarterback hits—sets up a snap-allocation decision if Highsmith suits up.