- Good start: The Steelers are hosting their rookie minicamp at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex this weekend, and with three practices under their belt, Coach Mike Tomlin has liked what he has seen so far.
"Great weekend," said Tomlin. "An opportunity to get to know some of the guys that we are working with. Opportunity to get to evaluate some tryout guys. Excited to have them. I loved the general enthusiasm and attitude of the group collectively. Needless to say this is just the beginning. It looks that way. A very productive weekend thus far."
- Getting a shot: In addition to the 2017 draft class, the undrafted rookie free agents and some select first-year players, there are also players at rookie minicamp who are there getting a tryout, a fair shot at proving they belong on an NFL roster. Tomlin looks at every player with an open mind, and the rest is up to them.
"I have stated it, but whether or not they believe me is up to them," said Tomlin of the fact that they all have a shot. "Oftentimes whether or not they believe me has a direct impact on how they perform. I am wishing them the best. It is a legitimate opportunity, but they have to believe it."
- A first look: There will be some standout plays over the three days of rookie minicamp, and there will be mistakes. That is just how it goes. But Tomlin said he isn't looking to be impressed. He is just looking to learn more about the players.
"It's more about getting our feet on the ground, teaching these guys some cultural things," said Tomlin. "Getting to know them, how they learn, how their bodies work. That is my agenda. I am not looking to be impressed, or disappointed in anything that I see physically at this point. We are just not there yet."
