AP

He hasn’t appeared in a game that counts since 2011, the year in which he ping-ponged up and down the Patriots roster 18 times by Thanksgiving.

Finally, Pittsburgh native Ross Ventrone may get to actually play for his hometown team. The Steelers have promoted the practice-squad safety to the active roster. The move comes with safety Shamarko Thomas officially out, due to a hamstring injury.

To create a spot for Ventrone, the Steelers release offensive lineman Wesley Johnson.

Ventrone, who was a walk-on at Pitt before transferring to Villanova, has appeared in eight regular-season games, with two total tackles.