LATROBE — Fresh from a “great” workout and a dip in the hot tub, Max Starks’ surgically repaired right knee was feeling fine as the Steelers tackle entered the dining hall at St. Vincent College on Sunday.

But well enough for Starks to step in and fill a developing hole at left tackle, if, theoretically, next Sunday’s preseason game actually was the regular-season opener?

“That would be pushing it,” Starks said, accompanied by his characteristic hearty laugh. “We’d have to put some Popsicle (sticks) and rubber bands together to try to get myself going.”

Starks remains on the physically unable to perform list as he rehabs from a torn ACL in his right knee. But on Sunday he gave an encouraging update on his projected return to game action.

“Maybe if it was end of August, I would probably be able to,” Starks said. “I feel like I’m coming along nicely.”

Pittsburgh opens the regular season Sept. 9 in Denver. With rookie Mike Adams out for about two weeks with a right knee injury, Starks’ return to the practice field would be welcome for the Steelers (No. 7 in the AP Pro32).

Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin said Saturday that none of the five PUP players would be evaluated for possible removal from that list until after the Steelers’ next preseason game Aug. 19 against Indianapolis.

That is still three weeks before the season begins, and Starks has proven he doesn’t need too much time to get ready to step into a game.

Last season, Starks signed with the Steelers on Oct. 5. He started at left tackle against the Tennessee Titans four days later. He assuredly will have more practice time with the team this season.

“It definitely puts a little less pressure on me than last time,” Starks said. “I had to shake the cobwebs off pretty fast.”