DaytonDailyNews.com

CINCINNATI — Finally, after six games of futility, the wraps are going to come off Bengals wide receivers Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell.

Head coach Marvin Lewis indicated Wednesday, Oct. 15, both rookies could get activated against Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Both wideouts are key building blocks for the future and need development. The best way to groom them is to play them.

Lewis said he wants to get "the young guys a little bit more involved — at least get 'em to suit up. It's a good opportunity for them. I think they've been up to the task. They've had good practice weeks thus far, and I know they're excited."

13 miss practice

Only 40 players on the 53-man roster participated in practice.

Quarterback Carson Palmer (elbow), center Kyle Cook (left big toe) and linebacker Corey Mays (ankle) have been ruled out against the Steelers.

The 10 players who didn't practice were cornerbacks Johnathan Joseph (ankle) and Jamar Fletcher (hamstring); wide receivers T.J. Houshmandzadeh (ankle) and Glenn Holt (ankle); offensive tackle Levi Jones (back); linebacker Dhani Jones (foot); tailback Chris Perry (shoulder); tight end Ben Utecht (chest); safety Herana-Daze Jones (hamstring); and kicker Shayne Graham (groin).

"We had the fewest guys being able to work that we've had in a while — since probably the first week," Lewis said. "Hopefully, we'll have some of the guys back out on the field (today) so they have an opportunity to play on Sunday."

Add a QB?

Don't be surprised if the Bengals add another quarterback because of Palmer's elbow injury.

"Whether it be on the practice squad or whether it be on the 53-man roster, yes, there is a chance," Lewis said.

He said a decision will be made one way or another "as we continue to gather information on Carson's future over the next week or so."

Roster move

Wide receiver Marcus Maxwell was waived from the injured reserve list. Maxwell suffered a thigh injury in the preseason, was waived/injured on Aug. 21, and had reverted to the Bengals' IR list on Aug. 22 after clearing waivers.

Lenvil Elliott dies

Funeral services for Lenvil Elliott, a Bengals running back and kick returner from 1973-78, are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. today at Thurman Funeral home in Richmond, Mo.

Mr. Elliott died at Ray County Memorial Hospital in Richmond on Oct. 12. He was 57. He becomes the 29th deceased Bengals player in the 41-year history of the franchise.