While Steelers rookie Will Howard was on injured reserve, he took on various roles to help the team in street clothes. He’d get assignments from the coaching staff and even the other quarterbacks.

Howard’s on the active roster now and dressing for games, but he’s had another project come across his desk: Operation Adam Thielen, as in helping the newest Steelers receiver prepare to get on a moving train in Week 14 of the season.

“The more that I can actually hear a call, line up, talk about what responsibility I have, talk about the entire concept ... the more I’m gonna be ready for a game,” said Thielen, whom the Steelers claimed on waivers Tuesday with five games left and — they hope — a playoff run.

Thielen, 35, spent at least an extra half-hour in the indoor facility with backup quar

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