PITTSBURGH — Logan Mankins better be well-conditioned.
The Patriots announced right guard Stephen Neal (shoulder), running back Fred Taylor (toe) and defensive lineman Myron Pryor (back) will not play Sunday against the Steelers.
This means, in all likelihood, Dan Connolly will start at right guard in place of Neal. Connolly started four games at that position in 2009, but he was the Patriots' starting left guard seven times this season while Mankins held out. Mankins started for the first time last week in Cleveland, but he was used on a rotational basis with Connolly. Due to Neal's injury, Mankins will have a chance to play every snap Sunday.
Also, expect interior offensive lineman Ryan Wendell to be on the Patriots' 45-man roster after he was inactive last week. If Mankins struggles, Wendell could spell him.
Taylor was cautious this week about his chances to return to the field Sunday. He suffered a severe toe injury on his left foot during the Patriots' victory against Buffalo in Week 3, but he practiced this week for the first time since the injury derailed his 13th NFL season.
Pryor will miss his first game of the season. Rookie Kyle Love will likely suit up after being on the inactive list for six consecutive games.
