Sports

Big Ben OK to start

Ben Roethlisberger will return to the Steelers’ starting lineup on Sunday against the Chargers after missing three weeks because of a sprained right shoulder and dislocated ribs.

Pittsburgh’s quarterback will play with a custom-fit rib/chest compression shirt and a layer of Kevlar-lined composite in his shoulder pads to help absorb hits to his clavicle and shoulder joint regions.

Roethlisberger practiced for the second straight day yesterday without incident and said he felt “good.”

CHARGERS: Coach Norv Turner and general manager A.J. Smith will he fired at season’s end, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

Sources told the newspaper Chargers president Dean Spanos essentially decided at least a month ago that Turner’s time was drawing to a rapid close.

The Chargers, who are 4-8 this season and 56-44 under Turner, will owe Smith $4 million for his remaining two years and Turner $3 million for the final year of his contract.

FALCONS: Running back Michael Turner was limited in practice for the second straight day with a left elbow injury. He had a wrap on the elbow, which he hurt in the Falcons’ win over New Orleans on Nov. 29.

Coach Mike Smith said he expects Turner will play against the Panthers. Smith said Jacquizz Rodgers has proved he can be the lead back if needed.

BENGALS: Kicker Josh Brown was signed to fill in for the injured Mike Nugent, who hurt his right calf and didn’t practice.

Brown played five seasons with Seattle and four with St. Louis. He kicked for the Jets in preseason and was released on Aug. 27.

BILLS: Offensive lineman Chris Hairston has been placed on injured reserve and will miss the rest of the season with a bone injury in his right ankle.