PITTSBURGH -- The Steelers have placed nose tackle Chris Hoke and running back Jonathan Dwyer on season-ending injured reserve.
Hoke hasn't played since injuring his neck during an Oct. 16 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The 35-year-old will need surgery, and there's a chance his career is over. He has become a valuable backup during his career, and the Steelers are 17-1 when he starts, including a 2-0 mark this season.
Dwyer will miss the rest of the season with a left foot injury. He rushed for 123 yards this season, including a 107-yard effort against the Jaguars.
The Steelers placed linebacker Mortty Ivy and safety Damon Cromartie-Smith on the 53-man roster to replace Hoke and Dwyer.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
