Pittsburgh Steelers running back Duce Staley will finally make his return to the field this week against the Green Bay Packers. Staley was only activated for one game this season prior to this week.

Staley's assistance is needed this week since Jerome Bettis will not play due to a quadriceps injury. Staley is still waiting for his first carry of the season after having a solid eight-year career, where he has rushed for 5,637 yards and 23 touchdowns.

"We all have faith in Duce to step in and get the job done," said Willie Parker, who leads the team with three 100-yard rushing performances in seven games. "The running game will be ready, just as it always is, and we'll be ready to run even more without Ben in there."

Bettis has been used in short yardage situations the past few weeks, and to pound the ball when the game is coming to a close.

Last year, Staley was the Steelers' starting back. He rushed for 707 yards in his first seven games, but then suffered an injury that made Bettis the starter.

"It's been a long time," Staley said. "I'm looking forward to it and am excited about it. I feel pretty good."