Thursday, August 17
Wrapping things up: Training camp is almost a wrap for the Steelers, with Thursday's practice the final one that is open to the public.
But that doesn't mean the work is done before the Steelers head into the regular season in the opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 10 at Acrisure Stadium.
"We're not done here," said defensive tackle Cameron Heyward. "I think there's still a lot of work to be done. We still have a couple more preseason games, but I like where we are."
Heyward said it's not major things that need to be done before the regular season starts, but rather the small things that will make the team click on both sides of the ball.
"We just have to keep getting better at the little things, whether it's tackling on defense, continue to work on communication," said Heyward. "We've only had one game to work on the communication front. Trying to get better at that."
While practice is a great opportunity to work on the communication, nothing replaces the doing it in a game, and with many of the defensive starters not playing in the first preseason game, there is still work to do.
"I like it to happen in the game because you get a real feel for it, communicating in and out of the plays," said Heyward. "Not that there is a lull from play to play in practice, but in a game, it flows faster, dealing with hurry up."
While they haven't all worked together in a game situation, Heyward does like what he sees from some young additions to the team and some veterans who arrived via free agency this offseason.
"A lot of young guys that can play. Whether it's (Nick) Herbig, Joey Porter Jr., newer faces we have Pat Peterson, Keanu Neal. I think we have a good group of guys we brought in."
They said it: A little bit of this and that from the guys.
"We've been doing it in the meeting room, going over film, but there is nothing like doing it on the field. That is the biggest piece we have to get back, getting all the guys out there, getting the chemistry." – cornerback Patrick Peterson on communication on the field
"Yeah, I left a little something in the tank. I still got some gas." – linebacker Elandon Roberts on if he can hit harder than he did on the first day of pads in backs on backers when he blew things up
"It's been nice so far, but it's nice to get back to your own place. The focus is making the most of the last two days though." – defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk on training camp wrapping up
One to grow on: The first preseason game in Tampa was a significant step in the team-building process individually and collectively, especially for rookies such as tight end Darnell Washington.
"For me it had kind of been a minute, at least that's what it felt like," Washington said. "I felt like I was prepared with this team getting me ready. There was excitement. I did some good things. I did some things I could clean up and some I will clean up."
Washington mentioned hand usage and footwork as aspects of his game that can be 'cleaned up.'
"Pad level, as well, because I'm so tall," he added.
Washington caught one pass for 9 yards in last Friday's 27-17 win over the Buccaneers.
He was also on the field blocking for what became a 14-yard touchdown run by running back Anthony McFarland Jr.
"He just read the field and then did whatever he does," Washington said of McFarland's cutback effort. "I was excited for him.
"Just to be in on that play when someone scored a touchdown, I kinda got hyped up."
Washington wants to continue to take steps "when it comes to just being comfortable in the game.
"That was my first NFL game," he pointed out. "I never played on a stage that big. I just feel like I have to get more comfortable at it and really just go out and play ball."
Washington has arrived fresh from winning back-to-back national championships at the University of Georgia. But there's a noticeable difference in his estimation between the biggest of NCAA stages and an NFL setting, even in the preseason.
"Going against pros," Washington said. "In college not everyone gets a shot at this level. I'm at this level now. It is different."
Last practice: Today is the last training camp practice. Thank you Steelers Nation for coming out in full force.
Thursday, August 17 - 1:55 p.m. - Last open practice
Admission to open practices at Saint Vincent College is FREE to Steelers Nation, but attendees MUST have a mobile ticket to enter Saint Vincent College. Secure your tickets now while they're still available! Details Here.
Right at home: Nose tackle Breiden Fehoko appreciated the run-game emphasis during Wednesday's practice and always embraces the position he plays and its accompanying responsibilities. Even when he's lying in bed at night.
"It's one you can't measure with talent," Fehoko insisted. "You measure it with your heart. I take a lot of pride in putting my hand in the dirt in the A gaps and putting my hands on people. I take a lot of pride in the run game.
"Me and (inside linebackers) Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb and Kwon Alexander, I talk to those guys every night. And I literally tell them every night I go to sleep I think about how we can make the inside of that defense better. I think about making sure no running backs run between the A gaps, between the tackles."
Fehoko joined the Steelers after three seasons with the Chargers. And after some initial uncertainty, he also came to appreciate and embrace the experience of participating in a training camp at Saint Vincent College.
"This was awesome," Fehoko assessed. "Going into my fourth year in the NFL, I never experienced this type of training camp setting. The fans here have been amazing. When I first got here, I checked into my dorm, I was a little iffy about it. It was brick walls all over and I was like, 'Oh, boy, this is going to be a rough one.' But man, after the first two days, you walk out here, you see the fans. At night, we have our rookie talent shows, we have the home run derby, and we have dinner together, we meet together.
"This is probably one of the best experiences of my life. Not only because we're here as a team, but you get to do what you love to do on an everyday basis. To me, I don't look at it as a job. I look at it as enjoying time with my brothers, my teammates. I'm kind of sad we have to wrap this up here in Latrobe but, man, it's been such an awesome experience. Everybody here has been just so amazing."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Harris jersey display to be unveiled: The Steelers will reveal Pro Football Hall of Famer Franco Harris' retired jersey display on Saturday, prior to the team's game against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium.
The ceremony will take place at 5 p.m. in the FedEx Great Hall, with Harris' wife, Dana, and son, Dok, on hand. The two will also be honorary captains for the game.
Fans with tickets to the game, which kicks off at 6:30 p.m., are encouraged to arrive early to watch the ceremony by entering via Ticketmaster B Gate.
In addition to the ceremony, the Steelers will celebrate Family Day during the game with activities throughout Acrisure Stadium.
Steely McBeam and other area mascots will be on hand. There will be face painting and interactive games for fans of all ages. Live music and food trucks will be available to enjoy.
And what is a celebration in Pittsburgh without postgame fireworks.
Fans who aren't able to attend the sold out game are encouraged to donate their tickets to a local charity, such as Vet Tix (https://www.vettix.org/) or Tickets for Kids (https://ticketsforkids.org/)). Season ticket holders can donate directly through their online account in support of Mentoring Partnership (https://www.mentoringpittsburgh.org/)).
ABOUT THE MENTORING PARTNERSHIP Founded in 1995 by Ambassador Dan Rooney of the Steelers and George L. Miles of WQED, The Mentoring Partnership (TMP) champions strong, supportive relationships for all young people. As the lead convener of mentoring in our region, it takes a holistic approach to centering relationships across every aspect of youth support.
Wednesday, August 16
Brotherly love: The relationship between Nate and Nick Herbig is one of the most genuine things you will ever see, and when older brother, Nate. referred to younger brother, Nick, as a stud, it did nothing but bring a smile to his face.
"I think he is lying a little bit because I was terrible growing up," said Nick Herbig. "That's my guy. That's my best friend. Earning his respect, seeing what he thinks about me, means the world to me.
"That is all I ever wanted. I wanted to be like my big brother my whole life. It means a lot. We're best friends. I don't think anything can separate us in the whole world. We have a tight bond."
There was likely nobody happier about Nick's performance against Tampa in the preseason opener than Nate. The younger brother played only 13 snaps, but got to the quarterback twice, finishing officially with a sack and a half.
"I was just trying to do my job," said Nick Herbig. "Like Coach (Mike) T(omlin) says, the standard is the standard. I know whenever I get my number called, I have to go in there and keep that same standard of play."
The small things: Steelers No. 1 pick Broderick Jones played more snaps than anyone on offense in the preseason opener against Tampa, logging 49 snaps, 78% of the plays, in his first game.
For the coaching staff it was an opportunity to see what he brings in game action.
For Jones, it was an opportunity to see where he is in his development so far.
"You can always improve on the small things," said Jones of his performance. "Just technique-wise, knowing the ins and outs of the playbook. The small things. It's never anything major. It's always little things."
Jones said he didn't really learn anything new about himself with the performance, just the overall continued drive to improve with every snap.
"Just continue to get better every day," said Jones. "Just always continue to improve the small things. At the end of the day that's what it's all about, the things people don't really see."
Jones and Dan Moore Jr. are in a competition for the starting left tackle spot, with Moore getting the start against the Bucs. Jones said they don't look at it as a battle, but rather an opportunity to help each other improve.
"We look at it as trying to get better," said Jones. "I like competition."
However he knows he has to be ready if the job is his.
"You never know," said Jones. "You always have to be prepared. That is how I look at it. Always be prepared if my name is called."
Controlling what he can: All running back Anthony McFarland Jr. wants is to keep doing his job.
And that is what he did against Tampa on Friday night, finishing the game with three carries for 18 yards, which included a 14-yard touchdown run. He also added a five-yard reception.
"I just keep my head down," said McFarland. "I am going to keep coming out here and getting better."
McFarland is working to become the backup behind Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, knowing he can't focus on numbers, just on his job.
"I just came in not thinking about the depth chart, where I fit," said McFarland. "I am just controlling what I can control."
McFarland can bring an explosive aspect to the run game, something he showed on the 14-yard run. His hope is every part of the offense can have that aspect, and that he can be a key part of it.
"We want explosive plays everywhere," said McFarland. "In the passing game, and for sure the running game. Keep defense on the toes. Run and pass explosive plays are key.
"That is something I try to carve a role out and create explosive plays."
Practice Update: The starting time for the Steelers training camp practice on Thursday, August 17 has been changed to a 1:55 p.m. start at Saint Vincent College. Parking will open and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.
It will be the final practice that is open to the public for training camp.
The team will hold two moew practices this week: Wednesday, Aug. 16 and Thursday, Aug. 17. All practices are open to the public and begin at 1:55 p.m.
As a reminder, fans need tickets to attend practice. All tickets are free and can be secured here --> Training Camp Tickets.
Upcoming schedule: The following is the full schedule for the upcoming week.
Wednesday, August 16 - 1:55 p.m.
Thursday, August 17 - 1:55 p.m. - Last open practice
Admission to open practices at Saint Vincent College is FREE to Steelers Nation, but attendees MUST have a mobile ticket to enter Saint Vincent College. Secure your tickets now while they're still available! Details Here.
Making moves: In case you missed it, the Steelers made several roster moves lately. The moves are below.
Steelers sign Valladay: The Steelers signed running back Xazavian Valladay and waived running back John Lovett.
Valladay originally signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent following the 2023 NFL Draft and was released during camp.
Valladay played four seasons at Wyoming before transferring to Arizona State in 2022 for one season. While at Arizona State he had 1,481 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns. He had 215 carries for 1,192 yards and 16 rushing touchdowns in 2022, the most rushing touchdowns in the Pac-12 last season.
Steelers sign Clarke: The Steelers signed cornerback Nevelle Clarke.Steelers sign Clarke:
Clarke originally signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent following the 2020 NFL Draft but didn't make the final roster.
Clarke also sent time with the Generals of the XFL Spring League and New Orleans Breakers of the USFL.
He played college football at Central Florida where he finished his career with 29 pass breakups, tied for ninth in school history. His senior year he ranked second with 13 passes defensed, including two interceptions. Also added 22 tackles as he was an honorable mentioned All-AAC selection.
Tuesday, August 15
Defending champ: The Steelers held their annual home run derby on Tuesday night at Saint Vincent College, and wuarterback Kenny Pickett defended his title, becoming a two-time home run derby champion. Pickett, who tallied 39 points in the final round, edged out fellow quarterback Mitch Trubisky and long snapper Rex Sunahara.
Always room to grow: They have 18 years of experience combined under their belts, but that doesn't mean Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi aren't still trying to add new wrinkles to their game.
Heyward, who is entering his 13th season, isn't looking to redefine his game by any means. Nor does he need to. But it never hurts to add something to the mix.
"You can always be better at technique, whether its hands or whatever," said Heyward during an interview with the DVE Morning Show. "It's a copycat league. I am always looking at guys, like Larry, or guys around the league, trying to add something new to the repertoire.
"I can't go away from what's made me good. You try to have a fine line between both. There's always tricks to learn for the old dog."
Ogunjobi, who is entering his seventh season, has seen the offenses evolve over the years and he knows the defense has to adapt to those changes, mostly through addition and not taking away what works for you.
"There are always more arrows in the quiver, but at the same time being able to watch, grow and adapt," said Ogunjobi. "The league is changing every year. Sometimes it's more run emphasis. Now it's more pass. You look at the offensive linemen, they are getting leaner because they are going outside perimeter run and RPO, so you start upgrading your game in that sense. You start watching guys, what works and doesn't work.
"As you continue to build, you have guys like Cam who have been playing for 13 years. It's not like he's just switching everything. Its just compound interest is getting better and better. That is why a guy like Cam continues to increase and rise every year. Not only does he see the game so purely, but he is also taking little nuggets and applying it to his game and then maximizing it. That is what makes him special.
"When you continue to want to build, learn and grow, you give yourself more capacity. There is more I can pour into this cup. He is a great example of that."
Welcome back: As he walked from the locker room to the field at Saint Vincent College, former Steelers fullback Roosevelt Nix couldn't help but he all smiles.
The crowd that was lining the hillside waiting for the team to come out to practice immediate recognized him, yelling his name and making him feel right at home again.
"That was crazy. That was super nice," said Nix. "Any time you get to feel some love, it makes you really feel the love inside. It makes you feel like everything was worth it.
"Saint Vincent, Latrobe, just being back here and seeing all these people, being around the family, teammates, staff. It's a great experience to come here and get some good love back. It lets you know that your efforts weren't looked over or anything like that. It's a heartwarming feeling."
That warm welcome didn't end there. The minute he hit the field he was greeted by special teams coordinator Danny Smith, and then moments later by Coach Mike Tomlin, who told him to make himself at home.
"That right there is enough to say my career was a success," said Nix. "I am a Steeler for life. Coach Tomlin is one of the best to ever do it. It gives you goosebumps. I am proud he looks at me in that favor and I look at him the same way."
He said it: Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick on how to stop Kendrick Green, when the 315-pound 'fullback' comes at you.
"You pray. You pray. You close your eyes, and you pray. There is not much you can do. I go low, because if I try and go high, I am going to get run over. You go full speed and just try and slow him down a little bit and let the boys come."
The moves continue: The Steelers signed cornerback Lavert Hill and waived/injured cornerback Duke Dawson and waived cornerback Isaiah Dunn.
Hill originally signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent following the 2020 NFL Draft. Hill spent the majority of his rookie season on the Chiefs' practice squad. He also had stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns.
Hill played for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the XFL in 2023, earning All-XFL honors. He recorded 25 tackles and two interceptions in 10 games.
Hill played at Michigan where he was a three-year starter and three time all-Big Ten selection. He finished his career with 57 tackles, seven for a loss, six interceptions, a fumble recovery and 29 pass breakups, sixth all-time in school history.
Check out the best photos from the third week of the 2023 Steelers training camp
Practice Update: The starting time for the Steelers training camp practice on Thursday, August 17 has been changed to a 1:55 p.m. start at Saint Vincent College. Parking will open and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.
It will be the final practice that is open to the public for training camp.
The team will hold three practices this week: Tuesday, Aug. 15, Wednesday, Aug. 16 and Thursday, Aug. 17. All practices are open to the public and begin at 1:55 p.m.
As a reminder, fans need tickets to attend practice. All tickets are free and can be secured here --> Training Camp Tickets.
Check out the best photos of fans from the third week of the 2023 Steelers training camp
Upcoming schedule: The following is the full schedule for the upcoming week.
Tuesday, August 15 - 1:55 p.m.
Wednesday, August 16 - 1:55 p.m.
Thursday, August 17 - 1:55 p.m. - Last open practice
Admission to open practices at Saint Vincent College is FREE to Steelers Nation, but attendees MUST have a mobile ticket to enter Saint Vincent College. Secure your tickets now while they're still available! Details Here.
On display: Fans can enjoy the newest exhibits, just put on display at the Steelers Hall of Honor Museum, located at Acrisure Stadium.
The museum is featuring a new rotating exhibit highlighting Pro Football Hall of Famers and the only three Steelers to have their jersey retired in team history: Franco Harris, Ernie Stautner and Joe Greene. The display will include a signed football and game-worn jersey from each of the players along with personal accounts and statistics from their careers.
New mannequin displays will feature uniforms from key moments in team history, including T.J. Watt's game-worn uniform from when he tied the NFL's single-season sack record against the Baltimore Ravens in 2021. In addition, Ben Roethlisberger's game-worn jersey from that same game at Baltimore, the last of his 18-year career, will also be on display.
A fun addition that is just debuting for fans of all ages to enjoy is a personalized interactive feature where guests can virtually add stickers, face paint and a helmet to their own portrait.
For more information or to book a tour, visit the Steelers Hall of Honor Museum website. For additional questions, call (412) 697-7150 and press "5" or email museumandtours@acrisurestadium.com.
* * *
Located in Acrisure Stadium, the Steelers Hall of Honor Museum is dedicated to promoting, preserving and celebrating Steelers football. The Hall of Honor Museum is home to 53 inductees and over 10,000 square feet of Steelers history.
The museum provides opportunities for fans to learn more about the franchise, view rare artifacts preserved by the team, and relive the biggest moments and people in Steelers history. A portion of the proceeds go to the Art Rooney Scholarship Fund.
Sunday, August 13
Keeping it going: The numbers weren't eye popping for running back Anthony McFarland in the preseason opener against Tampa Bay on Friday night, but they were solid with the playing time he received and enough to have Coach Mike Tomlin call him out as one of the players he thought stood out in the game.
McFarland had three carries for 18 yards, which included a 14-yard touchdown run. He also added a five-yard reception.
"Going against another team, just seeing what we are," said McFarland of the first outing of the preseason. "We've been going against each other in camp so it's good to go against an opponent, just to see who we are as a team."
More than that, it gave the fourth year running back an opportunity to see where he is. He hasn't seen the field a lot in his first three seasons with the Steelers, playing in just 14 games. The 2020 fourth-round draft pick has 42 carries for 146 yards. He also has nine receptions for 76 yards.
"I'm just keeping my head down," said McFarland. "Never get too high, never get too low. Just got to keep going."
Making the connection: It was just a week before the Steelers were set to report to training camp when former linebacker Chad Brown stopped by the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex for a visit.
When he went into the locker room, he had an opportunity to meet a couple of players who were fresh off a workout, including quarterback Kenny Pickett and receiver Gunner Olszewski.
After a brief chat, Brown admitted he was surprised to see them there, in their final days off before camp.
But for Pickett and Olszewski, it was nothing new.
The two were regulars at the facility from the time minicamp ended until the start of training camp, minus the time for Pickett's wedding festivities of course.
It was that time together that had Pickett calling out Olszewski as a player who showed a lot during training camp and was a go-to guy for him
"I'll be honest. There's a lot of guys," said Pickett, referring to who has stood out. "A guy I worked really hard with in the offseason, puts a ton of time in, plays as hard as I've seen a guy play is Gunner. Gunner, he's reliable. He shows up every day., even though the two didn't have the opportunity to connect in the preseason opener.
"Whatever position he's asked to do, he knows all of them. He's going to stick his nose in there in the run game. I have a ton of great things to say about Gunnar. I think he's a guy that's kind of popped for me."
When Olszewski learned Pickett was spending the majority of time in Pittsburgh during the offseason, he knew that was where he had to be, working with him to benefit both of them.
And it's paid off.
"I was pumped when I heard after OTAs he was staying in Pittsburgh because I've always been wherever the quarterback is," said Olszewski. "That is where I try to be. So, Kenny staying in Pittsburgh was great. We had a good group there, running, working out every day.
"He is a worker. He pushed me. He trains like a skill position player. I want to be there to catch as many passes as I could for him every day. I told him no matter how many routes you need today, I got you."
They didn't have a timetable on how long their days were, making sure they simply put in as much time as they needed to get the job done.
"Offseason hours don't exist like they do in season," laughed Olszewski. "Now, we count every hour. We were there every morning. We had breakfast together. We would run, throw and then lift together. Quick days and then hitting the golf course. Just hanging out.
"He is a great guy to be around. He is a motivating guy because of the way he works. We had a good group that stayed this summer and had a lot of fun."
The key was, it wasn't all about football. It was an opportunity to get to know each other even more off the field, something that later pays dividends on the field.
"When you stand in the huddle and look at a dude, and you are in the thick of it in a game or even in practice in these dog days, you can look at him in the eye and say 'I've got you, I've got you on this. We've run this route 75 times in the summer. Now there is just a defense out there,'" said Olszewski. "The trust you can build in a guy is awesome. The best thing that you can have from a quarterback is someone who trusts you playing the receiver position. We don't have a job if there isn't a quarterback to get us the ball. It's great hearing he trusts me. I hope he does. That is why I bust my buns here every day, to get him to trust me and all the quarterbacks here.
"I will do whatever I am asked to do. I like playing football. Whether that is blocking, tackling, catching balls, catching kicks. If it is football, I am game for it. I try to round my game. I try to tell people I am a good football player. I can do a lot of things well. My job as a receiver is to make the quarterback's job as easy as possible. Whether that's run a route or block in protection for Kenny, whatever he asks me to do. I know how hard it is to play quarterback. I don't know personally, but to me it seems like the hardest position in the world to play.
"Whatever I can do to make it easier on him. I will do what I can do. It's a bonus that he is a good dude, and you just want to see him do well."
A love for the game: Coach Mike Tomlin is in his 17th season in the NFL, but still approaches every practice, every game, even every day with the excitement and energy he had on the day he began coaching.
And that is because of one thing.
He loves football.
"The depths of my relationship with the game grows," said Tomlin during an interview with DVE Radio. "I have always seen football in a very black and white way. When I was a young man, maybe other components of my life were more grey. Decisions, as it pertains to football, were always easy for me. So, that is the beginning or the foundation of my relationship.
"I have been on a football team every year of my life since 1980. I was seven years old. I understand the dynamics. I have had about any position within a team, player or coach, you can have over that span. I see it in 3D, and I appreciate it. I love it. I love to build it, to construct it, to thoughtfully craft this journey is something I love. I think with more experience I see the craft component of it with greater clarity and that is more exciting for me."
Sending a message: A lot of people use their social media accounts to share news, photos, opinions on the hottest topics and viral videos.
But Steelers defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi isn't like most people.
Ogunjobi, who has a very thoughtful side, uses his to inspire others with messages that can get you through a rough day.
"I think it's important," said Ogunjobi. "You never know what anybody is going through. In our day job it is hard, it's a grind. But people are working 9-5, struggling to make ends meet, struggling to try and figure things out, and you just never know where your influence is going to come from.
"I think sometimes when you are able to speak and let people know I am going through something too, or you are not alone in this, it gives them that drive and resilience to understand this person that I am looking up to is saying the things I am going through. If he can do it, I can do it too.
"That has always been my message. You are never obsolete. You are never too different to do something. Everybody goes through trials and tribulations, but if you are able to look forward and stay focused, you will find a way though."
Upcoming schedule: The following is the full schedule for the upcoming week.
Sunday, August 13 - 1:55 p.m.
Tuesday, August 15 - 1:55 p.m.
Wednesday, August 16 - 1:55 p.m.
Thursday, August 17 - 1:55 p.m. - Last open practice
Admission to open practices at Saint Vincent College is FREE to Steelers Nation, but attendees MUST have a mobile ticket to enter Saint Vincent College. Secure your tickets now while they're still available! Details Here.
Wednesday, August 9
Ready to go: The Steelers will take the field for the first time in 2023 when they play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday at Raymond James Stadium in the preseason opener.
Quarterback Kenny Pickett said he expects to play against the Bucs but isn't sure how long he will be out there.
"I'm on go," said Pickett. "I'll be in there for however long they want me to be. When they pull me, they'll pull me out. I'm excited to play."
Pickett said he feels a change from a year ago and it's showing in practice, including some of the adjustments he is able to make and his pre-snap recognition.
"I'd just say recognition pre-snap, understanding my answers and what I have available to me, being able to signal certain things and change stuff at the line," said Pickett. "Doing a lot more than I did last year. I feel comfortable with the system and I'm getting towards that ownership aspect which I've been pushing for."
Pickett likes what he sees from everyone on offense this camp and gave a shoutout to receiver Gunner Olszewski.
"I'll be honest. There's a lot of guys. A guy I worked really hard with in the offseason, puts a ton of time in, plays as hard as I've seen a guy play is Gunner. Gunner, he's reliable. He shows up every day. Whatever position he's asked to do, he knows all of them. He's going to stick his nose in there in the run game. I have a ton of great things to say about Gunnar. I think he's a guy that's kind of popped for me."
It's all part of the chemistry that Pickett is developing with everyone on the offense, something that has grown throughout camp.
"It's being where I need them to be at the time that I'm ready to be there," said Pickett of what chemistry is all about for him. "I think that's kind of it. When my eyes get to where I want to throw it, as they're coming out of their breaks and that timing and anticipation is there. I think the chemistry is where we need to be."
With the preseason starting and just one more week in camp, Pickett knows that despite being a routine guy, he has to watch what he does.
"Pretty big routine guy," said Pickett. "As camp goes though, you have to be careful how much we were throwing. We threw six days in a row, so that's a lot on your arm. So, kind of in between the offensive periods where we're in special teams or we're on the side, sometimes it's doing some mental stuff as much as physical stuff and kind of slowing it down just to save some throws on my arm.
"But I'm a big routine guy. Coach Sully's (Mike Sullivan) been great with the quarterbacks and going through our reads and our progressions on certain plays. I think as a quarterback room, we're pretty comfortable with where we are."
What coach says, goes: A few minutes before running back Najee Harris talked to the media at Saint Vincent College, Coach Mike Tomlin gave what his plan is for Friday night's preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"All that are healthy are scheduled to play at this juncture," said Tomlin. "How much they'll play is to be determined."
Harris was asked his thoughts on playing in the preseason opener, and he has no problem with it.
"Whatever he says goes. If he plays me, he plays me," said Harris. "I think getting reps in the preseason is important. So, whatever he wants, that's it."
Harris feels like the best bet is to just have balance when it comes to preseason playing time, getting guys the time, but not too much time.
"You don't want guys to play the whole game," said Harris. "You want to give guys a couple of series. Get some film out there so we can look at it, correct it, see what we can do better."
It's football: After several weeks of going against each other in practice on a daily basis, it will be a new look on Friday night when the preseason kicks off.
And even seasoned veterans like safety Minkah Fitzpatrick are ready for it.
So, when the question was asked about it not being 'real football,' Fitzpatrick's answer came quick.
"It's very real. It's football," said Fitzpatrick. "It's film we put on tape so to me it matters. It's competition. We are out there to get better and compete at a high level."
Bringing it all to the table: He doesn't know what the emotions are going to be yet, but rookie linebacker Nick Herbig is ready for his first NFL preseason game.
"I am excited. I am ready," said Herbig. "Finally get my feet wet. I am ready."
Herbig has been getting ready with a relentless work ethic in practice, something that he knows is a must for not just a young player, but anyone who wants a long career in the NFL.
"I came out here with the intention to work hard," said Herbig. "I am bringing my best to the table. Whatever that is. Whether that is in back on backers, in team. I really pride myself in my hard work and my non-stop motor."
Herbig is pumped that his first game in the NFL he will be playing with two special teammates, his brother, guard Nate Herbig, and his college teammate Keeanu Benton, who is like another brother.
"We have been friends for a while now. He is like my brother," said Herbig. "We trained together. Did everything together. We talked about playing each other and jersey swap and things like that and now we are on the same team and it's a dream come true."
Good morning, Pittsburgh: The folks from Good Morning America were at Steelers training camp on Tuesday, with Ike Ejiochi going through on-field drills with running backs coach Eddie Faulkner, and at Acrisure Stadium on Thursday morning for a live report with Steelers legend Brett Keisel on hand.
Where it airs: Don't miss a minute of the action on Friday night when the Steelers take on the Tampa Bay Bucs at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL.
WATCH/STREAM
- The game broadcast is carried on KDKA-TV (CBS) locally in Pittsburgh & on the Steelers preseason TV affiliate network. Game coverage begins Saturday at 7:00 p.m. ET; The BetMGM Steelers Kickoff pregame show begins at 6:30 p.m. ET; The Neighborhood Ford Store Steelers Xtra Point postgame show starts immediately following the game on Pittsburgh CW. Both programs will be archived on the Steelers YouTube channel.
- The NFL also offers fans a number of ways to watch Steelers preseason football on their digital devices:
Fans located in most Steelers preseason affiliate markets can watch Steelers preseason football on Steelers.com (desktop & mobile site). NFL geographical restrictions apply.
Not in any of the Steelers preseason TV affiliate markets? NFL+ Premium gives you the freedom to watch LIVE out-of-market preseason games, LIVE local & primetime Regular Season and Postseason games on your phone or tablet, full & condensed replays of every game, and MORE! Whether you are at the stadium or on-the-go, you will never miss a moment with NFL+. NOTE: NFL+ is only available to users within the United States. For a full description of features, requirements, limitations, and other information, visit NFL+ Support.
Don't forget all Steelers postgame press conferences are streamed live on Steelers.com, the Steelers Official Mobile App and the team's Official YouTube Channel.
More info can be found here --> Where it airs
Upcoming schedule: The following is the full schedule for the upcoming week.
Wednesday, August 9 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 13 - 1:55 p.m.
Tuesday, August 15 - 1:55 p.m.
Wednesday, August 16 - 1:55 p.m.
Thursday, August 17 - 1:55 p.m.
Admission to open practices at Saint Vincent College is FREE to Steelers Nation, but attendees MUST have a mobile ticket to enter Saint Vincent College. Secure your tickets now while they're still available! Details Here.
Tuesday, August 8
Someone to lean on: At first glance, they are about as opposite as you can get on a football team.
One is a 13-year defensive veteran who has been there, done that, and seen it all in the league.
The other is an offensive rookie, trying to navigate his way through his first training camp as the start of the preseason is just days away.
It might seem like an odd pairing for mentor and mentee, but for cornerback Patrick Peterson and tight end Darnell Washington, it's the perfect pairing.
Washington has been leaning on Peterson since the start of camp for advice, both on and off the field, and it's something Peterson loves to see.
"We sit next to each other in team meetings, so he is always picking my brain on how to handle himself after practice, day-to-day life, how it is throughout the season. Things like that," Peterson told me. "Even family questions. He is a young guy that got married very young. He asked questions about that in the early part of camp. It is always great to have these young guys ask veterans questions that they think can help them with their game, with life."
For Washington, having someone like Peterson is huge. He didn't have that type of male guidance growing up, living in foster care for a time and then being raised by his mother, at times even dealing with homelessness as they had their struggles.
"For me, it's very important to have a guy like Pat Pete," said Washington. "My whole life, I have been by myself. To have someone who has been in the league, a veteran guy who has played a long time, to learn from him, this is new to me. I take those things very seriously. I enjoy Pat Pete and I am glad he is my teammate. Just for a veteran guy to open up to a rookie and help and guide me is a blessing."
Peterson said it's vital to be an open book for young players, making sure their transition is easy not just on the field, but even more off the field where a lot is coming at them.
"I am a caring and giving person. If anybody needs more information to help them get better, I am all for it," said Peterson. "You want to continue leaning on the next generation, that they will be able to pass down the same traits and tools to the next generation. You always want to leave the next generation in good hands."
The one thing that brought a smile to Peterson's face is how much Washington picks up, how much he takes his words and puts them into action.
"He has a little bit of an old soul personality," said Peterson. "He is definitely taking in some of the things I have been telling him, from body maintenance, working on his body even if it is not sore or hurting. Making sure he is always in tune in order to make him a better player.
"That is what the greats do. If you want to be one of the greats, then what are you doing when nobody is looking."
For Washington, that 'old soul personality' is what got him on the same page with Peterson right off the bat and it hasn't changed.
"I feel like with me and Pat Pete that is how we connected at first," said Washington. "Not just that, but on the field. I might go against him, but at the end of the day he is always giving me tips whether it is football related, family related or just real life. How to manage your body, take care of your body and find what works for you.
"That is something I really enjoy about him. It means a lot."
Check out the best photos from the second week of the 2023 Steelers training camp