Call it addition by omission.
As Steelers coach Mike Tomlin rattled off the status of injured players on Tuesday, three names were noticeably absent: Rashard Mendenhall, James Harrison and Troy Polamalu.
It wasn't an oversight by Tomlin. It's just that he doesn't think three of his team's most vital contributors are hurt anymore. Barring a setback, Tomlin expects all three to be in uniform on Sunday when the Steelers (1-2) host Philadelphia (3-1).
"I think that's a safe assessment," Tomlin said.
The unusually emphatic endorsement by the typically cautious Tomlin is perhaps the closest thing to a sure thing for the Steelers, who are looking to avoid their first ever 1-3 start since Tomlin took over in 2007. Under Tomlin the Steelers have started every season 6-2.
Having a couple of former defensive players of the year back won't hurt. Harrison hasn't played at all this season while nursing a lingering left knee problem. Polamalu missed the last two games with a strained right calf while Mendenhall is at the very end of a lengthy rehab after tearing the ACL in his right knee on New Year's Day.
"When we have those guys, we'll appreciate it," Tomlin said. "When we don't have them, we'll remain steadfast in our goals and our objectives."
While the offence has been remarkably consistent under new co-ordinator Todd Haley, the defence has looked toothless in the second half in losses to Denver and Oakland.
