Watt injured his groin against the Vikings, and despite being limited in practice to start the week on Wednesday, he missed by Thursday and Friday's practices.

With Watt out, Anthony Chickillo should step in as the starter. Last week Chickillo came in when Watt left the game, and responded with another strong effort.

"Playing outside linebacker requires some athletic ability and rush ability and Chick has got that," said defensive coordinator Keith Butler. "He realized he had to lose some weight when he got here so he can get the mobility to play the position and he's done what he needs to get himself into shape to play. He knew that when he got here, what he had to do to be able to get on the field. He's done whatever he's needed to do and he's lost weight.

"He's learned coverages, he's learned the position and he does not make a whole lot of mental mistakes. That's helped him out along the way."

Also inactive for today's game are quarterback Joshua Dobbs and receiver Justin Hunter, as well as tackle Jerald Hawkins, who is still batting an ankle injury. The Steelers depth on the offensive line will come from Matt Feiler, a backup guard who can also play tackle, and B.J. Finney, who can play guard or center. Rookie cornerback Brian Allen is also inactive.

Linebacker L.J. Fort, who was signed from the practice squad on Saturday, is active for the game.

Here are the players who will be inactive when the Steelers take on the Bears. Steelers Inactives

No. 5 QB Joshua Dobbs

No. 11 WR Justin Hunter

No. 29 CB Brian Allen

No. 65 OT Jerald Hawkins

No. 77 OT Marcus Gilbert

No. 90 LB T.J. Watt

No. 91 DE Stephon Tuitt