The Mike Tomlin put Casey Hampton on the physically unable to perform list after he failed the team’s annual run test, reports the Post-Gazette. Hampton was unable to complete the final three legs of the eight part run test because he reported to camp over weight.

Given that the health and stability of the defensive line is one of the major issues the team is struggling with this is not good news.

Hampton has never been known for his physical conditioning, but that has never affected his performance. However, as players pass the 30 milestone excess weight not only begins to affect performance, it also can increase the likelyhood of injury.

Tomlin has apparenlty ordered Hampton to get into shape, and the nose tackle will be unable to practice with the team until he is in shape. Tomlin’s move is the right one. Although showing up to camp overweight is a bad example, it is far wiser to fail him in his physical and allow him to train on his own, without the wear and tear of contact drills.