The Steelers are a few days away from their first game of 2012, but already it appears rather obvious they will be without one of their big playmakers on defense.

OLB James Harrison missed practice due to his ongoing issues with his left knee on Thursday, and reports across Twitter land state that LB Chris Carter is set to step in and start for Harrison.

Carter, drafted last season in the 5th round from Fresno State in the 2011 draft, played in 8 games last season, putting up two tackles before he landed on the injured list with a hamstring injury on January 4th.

The 2nd year player had a strong camp and has flashed signs of a good speed rush, much like Harrison. Carter also in the preseason showed his improvement against the run.

Sunday night, he may get to show off in a big way against the Broncos in Denver.