Thursday, August 15

An intense approach: Tight end Connor Heyward has seen extended work through training camp under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, something he welcomes.

Heyward would like nothing more than to add to his stats from his first two years, when he tallied 35 receptions for 318 yards and one touchdown.

Coming off training camp, that included the joint practice with the Bills at Acrisure Stadium, Heyward feels like it was a success.

"It was good," said Heyward. "Obviously, the ups and downs of camp. But, for the most part, I feel like it went very well for myself and the tight end room. There was a lot on us, and we knew that. There's even more room for us to grow in.

"Even though we've broke camp, it's still not over. I am trying to get better each day."

Finishing 'camp' off with the joint practice against the Bills is something that Heyward welcomed, an opportunity to see how they stack up against another opponent in a setting other than a preseason game.

"It was my first joint practice. I think for a lot of guys, it was their first time for a joint practice," said Heyward. "It was nice to go out there, do things that we want to do in the game and see if it works on other people, but stuff that you might not want to show in the preseason.

"Obviously, another good AFC team. I feel like it was a good chance to see where we stack up in practice and next in the game."

The practice was the icing on the cake for what was a physical training camp for the Steelers, one that they hope the physicality translates when the regular season kicks off.

"Every time we step out here, it's intense for us," said Heyward. "It only went up a level today.

"Our entire camp was intense. Mentally. Physically. Just every way. The playbook is different. Having a new offense coordinator. It's nice to have the same position coach. Being able to flush the old stuff out and adjust to the new playbook.

"A lot of guys will say this was one of the most physical Steelers camps. We were hitting every day, having live periods. Coach (Mike Tomlin) always talks about two points. He doesn't want to be saying, 'Did he get in,' second guessing himself. Every time you are able to come out and put the ball down live, there's not a lot of assuming. It's either a touchdown, or it's not."

Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place.

**Sign up today**.

Wednesday, August 14

Setting the tone: For the past there weeks, there has been hitting, the popping of pads, and big plays taking over the fields at Saint Vincent College during training camp.

Some players have called it the most physical camp they have ever been a part of.

For linebacker T.J. Watt, it's been just perfect.

"The physicality, intensity, it's been great. It really has," Watt shared with me. "We've gotten the most out of training camp. It's been a lot of fun. It's been great to see personalities show on and off the field.

"And we have a really, really competitive football team, a deep football team at a lot of positions. And it's been a lot of fun to be a part of."

Training camp is where it all begins for teams, and Watt wants it to end hoisting the Lombardi Trophy this year, so the tougher camp is, the better.

"It's huge. You set the tone now for what you want to do in January and February," said Watt. "We've gotten to a point now where we have a lot of guys on this team like myself, who haven't gotten to the places where we want to go, but we know what it takes. That starts here.

"There's a sense of urgency, and the sense of urgency has been there since the beginning of the offseason."

The best part about camp for Watt has been the balance. Through all of the drills, including the highly competitive Seven Shots, there have been wins on both sides of the ball, showing the work both sides are putting in.

"Absolutely the improvement has been on both sides," said Watt. "It hasn't been lopsided. It's not like the defense is winning every single day. It's not like the offense is winning every single day. We've been challenging each other, pushing each other, getting sick of each other. But it's really good.

"I feel like we're relatively healthy still, guys are playing well, and hopefully that pushes into the rest of the preseason and the season."

Here to compete: Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has a passion for using the tight end in his offense, and that is something that works in Darnell Washington's advantage.

Washington, the second-year tight end who was drafted in the third round, did a lot of the 'dirty' work last season as a blocking tight end, finishing the year with only seven receptions for 61 yards. He did more of the same against the Houston Texans in the preseason opener, called upon to block, something he has never complained about.

The key for Washington as camp wraps up, though, is to just see improvement. And he does.

"We are all out here trying to compete, trying to get better," said Washington. "It's camp. Everything is high intensity. Lots of emotion out there. Guys doing the right thing. Guys doing what they are being coached up on.

"Everybody wants to be perfect. But it's camp, there are wins and losses in camp. At the end of the day, we just want to get better as a team."

And when it comes to that improvement, to getting better as a group, Washington can see a change.

"There is a lot of improvement from each position," said Washington. "Lots of new faces on the team, different guys. It's just great to be a part of it."

Great to be back: Throughout training camp, the Steelers have had a mix of special guests, including coaches from other sports, celebrities, and nothing better than an array of Steelers legends coming back to connect with the team.

Among those who were recently at camp was Hall of Famer Donnie Shell.

"It was great to be back," said Shell. "Brought back some great memories. I was trying to figure out where everything was when I played. Things look different."

Shell spent time talking with Coach Mike Tomlin, players and Steelers personnel, while revisiting his time in Latrobe when he played for the team from 1974-87.

"I enjoy speaking with the young people," said Shell. "You can pass on what you learned to them, and then they can help somebody else down the road."

Shell is thrilled by the way the team embraces all of the alumni, whether it is a Hall of Famer or someone who was only there for a season.

"It's really good the way Coach Tomlin welcomes everyone," said Shell. "He is so authentic. I listened to an interview Ryan Clark did with him. He was just talking football. He was so relaxed, telling him about his strategy and how he prepares. It is awesome the depth that he goes through to prepare for a season."

Being back on the fields at Saint Vincent gave Shell that feeling again, but he laughed when he said he was ready to go back out and hit again.

"Football is football. It always comes back to you, and you feel good when you come back here," said Shell. "I feel like I can go back out there again, and then I am like, no I can't.

"But I think we are going to have a good season. I am excited about the quarterback situation and watching them come together as a team."

Steelers sign two: The Steelers signed defensive back Zyon Gilbert and receiver T.J. Luther.

Gilbert originally signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft. He spent time on the Giants practice squad and active roster as a game-day elevation, recording 10 tackles and a sack in 2022.

Gilbert was signed to the Green Bay Packers practice squad in 2023.

Gilbert placed college football at Florida Atlantic where he appeared in 60 games. He finished with 248 tackles, 158 of them solo stops, 31 passes defensed, five and a half tackles for a loss, two forced fumbles and one interception.

Luther was originally signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent following the 2023 NFL Draft.

He signed with the New England Patriots last season and spent the majority of the year on their practice squad.

Luther played college football at Gardner-Webb where he appeared in 19 games over two seasons. He finished with 78 receptions for 1,419 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Last open practice: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is finishing today at Saint Vincent College.

Today's practice is: Wednesday, August 14 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.

Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place.

**Sign up today**.

Monday, August 12

Showing flexibility: Defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal came into Steelers training camp ready to attack it this year.

He arrived in Latrobe in the best shape of his career, not messing around and looking to make an impact on the defense from the get-go after a 2023 that saw him inactive for multiple games near the end of the season.

He took what he went through last year and built on it this offseason.

"Last year was a learning year," said Leal. "This is a blessing. It's a blessing just to be out on this field and just doing what I do best and doing what I love. It's a learned lesson, I learned and now we're here.

"There were a lot of lessons on and off the field, just growing."

One thing Leal did in the offseason was get in shape and it hasn't gone unnoticed.

"I think DeMarvin has always been a really good athlete and could run all day, but he looks like he's in really good shape this year," said defensive coordinator Teryl Austin. "He's shown that at camp and the offseason, he's had a really good offseason, he's had a really good camp.

"I'm excited to see how that carries forward into the season, because I think he can be a guy for us. He plays inside, he plays outside, he rushes, he covers, he does it all, so I think some of the stuff we were excited about in year one, after year one are really coming to light now."

It is that ability to play inside or outside that excites Austin, including getting work at outside linebacker.

"He's shown some flexibility, he's really good, he's a really good athlete, and he's a big man," said Austin. "He's shown some things there, but it's like anything, it's hard. You spread them too thin, and then you're not getting what you want out of them. So, his main position is still an inside guy, but he has the flex to move out."

Austin's analysis: Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin got his first look at some newcomers to the Steelers roster when the team played the Texans in the preseason opener, and while he liked what he saw from some of them, there is still more he wants to see as the preseason continues this week against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium.

Austin weighed in on a variety of players, including the following:

On linebacker Payton Wilson:
"As an opener, it was good. Kind of what we thought. When you watch his college tape, he was a run and hit guy, he's around the football a lot. Nothing changed when he got here in Latrobe, and he took it into the stadium. I thought he did a good job, and he's got a lot of room for improvement, and he'll continue to do to that."

On linebacker Jacoby Windmon:
"He did a good job. He's a good football player. And it's funny because he's had to (in practice) play some outside backer for us, and inside backer, and he does a good job at both of them. I think when you watch him play, he's got really good instincts, he has a really good feel for the game, he's a good communicator, and he gets himself around the ball. So, he helped himself."

On linebacker Kyron Johnson on film:
"You see that K.J. has got some speed, he's got some ability to put pressure on quarterbacks because the guy can really run. So, you've got to get him to a well-rounded game in that regard. I think he made a nice play at the last part when they were trying to kill the clock, tackling the jet sweep, and so he does have some splash plays, he's just got to overall show a little bit more consistency in his play."

On defensive end Logan Lee playing nose tackle:
"Logan did well, he's a strong kid, smart kid. You probably shouldn't be surprised with the amount that people get dinged up. It's a testament to his readiness that he's able to play any position along the line as a young guy. He can play nose, he can play four. He did a good job there. He's pretty stout and you'll see that sometimes that guys come down they don't really knock him out or knock him off the ball, so that's a good start for him, and I think once he gets his feet under him and learn he'll have the ability to possibly contribute."

On DB Thomas Graham Jr.:
"I think what you see from T.G. is he's making some plays. You see him around the football, all of a sudden there will be a nice interception and it's 'T.G.'. There will be a nice play, a guy tackled for loss, showing up as a blitzer, and so he's shown some versatility, and he's shown the ability to get around the ball. So, I think that's really a good thing and that helps people. The bottom line in our business, if you're playing and getting difficult assignments all you want but if you don't make any plays then you aren't very good for us. We need guys that are able to make plays, make tackle for losses, get turnovers, all those different things and he's shown the ability to do that."

Home run champion: Quarterback Justin Fields won the Steelers annual training camp Home Run Derby.

And it shouldn't come as a complete surprise.

While with the Bears, Fields hit a home run at Wrigley Field. During batting practice, that is. Fields and some of his Bears teammates attended a game at the iconic Chicago ballpark in 2022, and the former high school player hit one over the ivy walls.

Upcoming schedule: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is underway and here is a look at what's to come over the next few days.

Monday, August 12 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.

Test drive: The preseason opener against Houston featured a reliance on the five-defensive backs, two-inside linebackers "nickel" sub-package in situations where the Steelers have traditionally favored the six-defensive backs, one-inside linebacker "dime."

It was more exploratory in nature than evidence of a philosophical shift.

"Yeah, we're just giving those guys some reps," defensive coordinator Teryl Austin explained. "We want them to get in there and see what it's like. Some of those 'backers don't get those third-and-longs.

"At this point, want we want to see is guys playing, see how they handle situational football, see how they handle some things in space because you gotta learn about it in a game situation."

Two obvious examples of the more-"nickel"/less-"dime" dynamic occurred in the second quarter.
The Steelers went "nickel" when the Texans faced a second-and-21 from the Pittsburgh 25-yard line and again on the next snap, third-and-15 from the Steelers' 19.

Both are traditionally "dime" situations but Austin maintains the Steelers have the capability of playing more "nickel" this season if they so desire.

"I think we do," he said. "With 'P.Q.' (inside linebacker Patrick Queen) and (inside linebacker) Payton (Wilson), they really can run. That gives us an opportunity to maybe stay in 'nickel' in some situations where we might not have (in previous seasons)."

The defensive performance overall in Friday night's 20-12 loss was about what Austin thought it had been initially. His postgame study of the tape confirmed more than it revealed.

"A lot of the stuff you could see," Austin said. "The mistakes we made were big and the good plays we made were nice. The tape showed that overall we had pretty good effort, some of the stuff you look for. Some of the stuff really doesn't take talent, that's some of the stuff we're looking at.

"I think there were some communication issues. Sometimes with some of the younger guys that's always an issue. But we're hoping that this week, now it gets better because they've been in a stadium and they've had an opportunity to experience a game."

The agenda for this week's preseason game against Buffalo will include cleaning that stuff up.

"Make sure we don't make the same mistakes we made last week," Austin said. "That is really a thing we're gonna emphasize with our guys. Some of the mistakes that we made, we don't want the same things showing up on tape two weeks in a row.

"We're just gonna emphasize the things we always emphasize, big guys running, little guys hitting, getting turnovers and keeping people out of the end zone. Those are the things we always emphasize. We just have to do a better job of it this week."

-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta

Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place.

**Sign up today**.

Sunday, August 11

'Feisty little guy': Feisty.

It's not a bad description for a football player, especially a rookie free agent who is fighting and clawing his way to make a roster spot with every rep.

And that is exactly how defensive coordinator Teryl Austin describes Beanie Bishop Jr.

"He's a feisty little guy," said Austin. "You got a chance to see it when he came in there and blitzed on the run with one running back, knocked him around a little bit.

"But it's like anything. He's got a way to go in this game, but I think he's right in the competition in terms of being in the hunt to be a starting nickel. So, that's a good thing.

"But we're going to let this play out over the next couple of weeks and see where it shakes out."

That feisty approach is something Bishop, the 5-9 cornerback from West Virginia, embraces.

"The chip never leaves my shoulder," said Bishop. "Even when I get done playing, I will always have the chip on my shoulder just because of the way that I grew up and things like that. It's just something that never leaves me."

Bishop is listed on the Steelers depth chart as the team's starting nickel back, and after his first preseason action against the Houston Texans he felt good about some things, while he knows there is still work to do.

"I think I did a solid job," said Bishop. "There were some plays that I kind of left out there. Made a couple of mistakes. Things I can build off of being my first game and things like that. Next week I'm going to build off of that and correct the mistakes that I made and try not to have them again."

Bishop said the mistakes are ones that he can correct, and that his comfort level with the playbook is strong.

"Just things like eye control and eye discipline," said Bishop. "That's really it.

"I was really comfortable. I feel that I understand the playbook, the adjustments and things like that. I can go out there and see what the offense is doing."

One thing Bishop didn't have to contend with in his NFL debut was nerves. He said he approached it as the same game he has been playing since he was a kid.

"It's football. I've been playing football since I was four years old," said Bishop. "Obviously, this is at a much higher level. Guys get paid.

"But I've been playing football since I was four years old. I'm going after it with the helmet and pads on."

Patterson ready to go: The Steelers activated running back/kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson from the Non-Football Injury List on Friday before their preseason game against the Texans and the seven-time All-Pro was a partial participant in practice Sunday as the team resumed practices here at Saint Vincent College.

Patterson, 33, is willing to take things slowly as he works his way back from the leg injury that sidelined him since training camp opened more than two weeks ago.

"(I'm) just going with the flow," Patterson said. "It's still early, you know. It's a long season. So no need to go out and do anything stupid."

The Steelers signed Patterson this offseason after he spent the previous three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played under new Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and had some of his most productive seasons as a professional.

Patterson said Smith joining the Steelers after his removal as head coach of the Falcons played a critical role in him coming to Pittsburgh.

"Absolutely. That's one of the big reasons I came here because Arthur, I trust and believe in his plan," Patterson said. "I'm just excited, and I'm just ready for the season to be here."

Patterson played running back the past three seasons in Atlanta, rushing for 1,494 yards after coming into the NFL as a wide receiver as a first-round pick of the Vikings in 2013. But his main role is that of a kick returner, where he holds the NFL record with nine returns for a touchdown.
He's kept a close eye on the new kick return rules, including in the Steelers' 20-12 loss to the Texans on Friday in their preseason opener.

He also saw Jacksonville return man Parker Washington break a 73-yard kick return for a touchdown Saturday night against Kansas City, the first such return under the new rules.

Patterson was Atlanta's main return man last season and got just seven opportunities to return a kickoff.

"I watched the game last night and to see the Jaguars, the guy had a good return," Patterson said. "So it gives a lot of guys like me a lot of hope."

— Blog entry by Dale Lolley

Steelers make multiple moves: The Steelers restored defensive lineman Dean Lowry to the Active List. Lowry opened camp on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform List.

Lowry, who is entering his ninth season, spent his first seven seasons in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers (2016-2022) and spent last season with the Minnesota Vikings. Lowry was drafted by the Packers in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the 137th overall pick.

Lowry has appeared in 120 games, starting 84. He has 266 tackles, 143 of them solo stops, 23 tackles for a loss, 15.5 sacks, 32 quarterback hits, 17 passes defensed, 1 interception, five fumble recoveries, including one returned for a touchdown, and one forced fumble.

In addition, the Steelers signed defensive lineman Marquiss Spencer and linebacker Luquay Washington.

Spencer was originally drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the 253rd overall pick. He spent time on the practice squad in 2021, before signing a Reserve/Future contract at the end of the season.

Spencer spent part of the 2022 and 2023 seasons on the New York Jets practice squad.

Spencer played at Mississippi State where he recorded 106 tackles, including 22.5 for a loss, and seven sacks.

Washington signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft.

Washington played college football at Central Connecticut State where he appeared in 37 games. He recorded 110 tackles, including 65 solo stops. He added seven sacks, 16.5 tackles for a loss, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

In a related move, the team released linebacker Easton Gibbs and placed nose tackle Breiden Fehoko on the Reserve/Injured List.

Upcoming schedule: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is underway and here is a look at what's to come over the next few days.

Sunday, August 11 - 2:55 p.m.
Monday, August 12 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.
1:55 p.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 10:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.

Bringing you the action: For fans who don't want to miss any of the action, NFL+ is here, which means you can now watch the Steelers live and on the go! Watch live local and primetime regular season games on mobile, plus NFL RedZone, NFL Network, live audio and more - all in one place.

**Sign up today**.

Stay up-to-date: Steelers training camp returns to Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA this year. While fans can come out and watch practices in-person, they can also follow their Steelers throughout camp on the Steelers official media platforms.

In addition to daily written reports and exclusive photo galleries, you can stay up-to-speed throughout camp in the following ways:

Live Video Programming:
The Steelers are excited to offer fans not at Saint Vincent College a variety of ways to keep up with all the happenings at Training Camp through video programming.

• Training Camp Live, presented by FedEx, with Mike Prisuta and Max Starks, is an exclusive live video program streamed on Steelers.com and the Steelers Official Mobile App, and simulcast on SNR. Fans can take a live look-in at practice, as well as have the opportunity to have their questions answered and see their social media posts featured in the program. Catch this program daily beginning on Thursday, July 25 at approximately 10:30 a.m. Training Camp Live starts at 10:30 a.m. on weekdays and 2 p.m. on weekends. Can't catch it live? All episodes can be viewed On-Demand on the Steelers YouTube channel. You can also follow @SteelersLive on Twitter for highlights and updates.
• Training Camp Wrap Up, presented by UPMC Health Plan, with Mike Prisuta and Craig Wolfley, is streamed live on Steelers.com and the Steelers Official Mobile App and is your go-to program to see and hear all that happened during Steelers practice, including a live and exclusive interview with a member of the team. Catch this program daily beginning on Thursday, July 25. Training Camp Live starts at 3 p.m. on weekdays and 4 p.m. on weekends. Can't catch it live? All episodes can be viewed On-Demand on the Steelers YouTube channel. You can also follow @SteelersLive on Twitter for highlights and updates.

Live Audio Programming
Steelers Nation Radio, the Steelers official digital audio station, will feature original programming live from Saint Vincent College each day throughout camp. Live programming begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. on weekdays, 5 p.m. on weekends, including the return of In The Locker Room, Presented By Your Neighborhood Ford Store, each day at 10 a.m. ET with Craig Wolfley, Max Starks and Wes Uhler and SNR Drive with Dale Lolley and Matt Williamson each day.

SNR's coverage of training camp is presented by FedEx.

Weekdays (10:30 a.m. Practice Start Times)
9-10:30 a.m. The Training Camp Report with Bob Labriola & Tom Opferman
10:30-11:30 a.m. Training Camp Live with Mike Prisuta & Max Starks
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. In The Locker Room with Craig Wolfley, Max Starks and Wes Uhler
1:30-3 p.m. SNR Drive with Dale Lolley, Matt Williamson & Rob King

Weekends (1:55 p.m. Practice Start Times)
9-10 a.m. The Training Camp Report with Bob Labriola & Tom Opferman
10-12 a.m. In The Locker Room with Craig Wolfley, Max Starks and Wes Uhler
12-2 p.m. Live from Latrobe with Rob King & Wes Uhler
2-3 p.m. Training Camp Live with Mike Prisuta & Max Starks
3-5 p.m. SNR Drive with Dale Lolley & Matt Williamson

All Steelers Training Camp audio programming will also be available as podcasts.

On Demand Programming:
Watch press conferences with Steelers players and coaches in their entirety on Steelers.com, the Steelers Official Mobile App and the Steelers YouTube channel. Read about what happened during the day's practice in the Practice Report, presented by your Neighborhood Ford Store. Check out Training Camp Highlights, presented by Bud Light, to see highlights from practice.

For fans in the Pittsburgh area, don't miss FedEx Steelers Training Camp All-Access at 11:35 p.m. on KDKA-TV on Saturday July 20, Saturday July 27 and Saturday August 3. All episodes can be viewed On-Demand on the Steelers YouTube Channel.

Social Media:
Follow camp on the Steelers social media platforms to stay-up-to date with all that occurs at #SteelersCamp, and get involved. Look out for exclusive highlights from practices, mic'd up content, off-the-field features, and much more.

Will you be on-site at Saint Vincent College? You have the opportunity to be recognized on Steelers social media! When the gates open, look for our camera set up in the fan experience area and answer the Steelers Nation Unite Question of the Day for a chance to be featured on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok!

You can also scan one of the QR codes posted around the fan experience area using your mobile device to submit your photos of your trip to Saint Vincent College.

Fans everywhere can continue to submit photos of your Steelers Traditions like fan caves, Steelers selfies, Steelers pets and Terrible Towels. Click here to submit >>>

¿Vas a viajar de México a Saint Vincent College? ¡Déjanos saber cuándo estarás con nosotros en alguna práctica y nos pondremos en contacto contigo. Regístrate aquí >>>

Mobile App Download the Steelers Official Mobile App to access Steelers Training Camp content on your mobile device. Fans can also opt to receive Training Camp content through push notifications. Just visit the 'More' menu in the lower right corner of the home screen, then tap "Settings" and "Notifications". Toggle "Training Camp" on.

Post-training camp fun: Acrisure Stadium Management has announced the return of the annual Kickoff and Rib Festival, presented by I.C. Light. This Western Pennsylvania staple will run Thurs., Aug. 29 through Mon., Sept. 2.

The annual festival will feature some of the best ribs in the country from a dozen or more rib vendors, as well as football, free concerts, food, and fun for all. Admission to the festival grounds
is free. Food and drink will be available for purchase.

-->> Click for more details.

In addition, the Steelers Run Walk is quickly approaching.

Get up & get active with the Steelers on Labor Day at our Steelers Run Walk. We're offering virtual and in-person options for the whole family.

The 36th annual race is the major fundraiser for the Art Rooney Scholarship Fund and features a 3.1-mile level course on the North Shore highlighted by a spectacular finish on the Acrisure Stadium warning track.

-->> Register Now.

Thursday, August 8

Getting the juices flowing: Rookie linebacker Payton Wilson eats, breathes and sleeps football, and there is no doubt his adrenaline is pumping as the team prepares for Friday night's preseason opener against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium.

"I'm super excited," said Wilson. "You don't get tired of it, but going against the same people, it kind of gets repetitive. It's going to bring a different juice Friday.

"It's my first preseason game. It's going to be really surreal."

It will all start with walking into the Steelers locker room and putting on the uniform.

"It's going to be unbelievable," said Wilson, the linebacker who played at North Carolina State. "All the work that been put in to get to this moment, just super excited and honestly just can't wait."

While there is nothing that can prepare you for NFL game action than playing in a game itself, the last few weeks of training camp have Wilson as ready to go as you can be. He is a player who has gained a lot of praise from teammates and coaches for his preparation and now he is ready to put it all to work.

"I've got to credit all the coaches from Coach Mike Tomlin to my linebackers coach, Coach (Aaron) Curry. They are preparing me and putting trust in me to out there and get as many reps I have.

"I'm as confident as I am going into Friday."

Two players who have been in Wilson's corner are fellow inside linebackers Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts. Having their support is something that drives Wilson.

"I'm going to work hard, keep my head down, and try not to cause problems. Just compete at the highest level," said Wilson. "Getting praise and help from guys like PQ (Queen) and E-Rob (Roberts), it means the world to me. Guys that I look up to in the position room. I can't thank them enough for everything they've done."

One area where he has been praised is for his consistency. He comes to work every day with the same attitude, same approach, same intensity, and it's working.

"That's how I live my life," said Wilson. "One day I'm not going to be up. I'm not going to be down. I'm just going to be consistent.

"That's what I've learned throughout my journey in sports, that you can't really be a guy on a rollercoaster every day. You just have to come in with the same mentality and continue to work and compete and understand at this level you're competing for a job.

"Every single day has to be your best and you have to treat it like that."

Talking the talk: If you talked to offensive coordinator Arthur Smith away from the football field, you would never expect he would have the personality he does on the field.

But that is what makes football what it is.

Smith is known to be a trash talker, something quarterback Justin Fields confirmed recently.

"I know for a fact, the past two years we played them when I was in Chicago, he talks trash during the games," said a smiling Fields. "It's good to have a coach like that, talk trash and have that competitive spirit."

Rookie guard Mason McCormick, who himself plays with an edge, has already seen it in practice and likes what he sees from his offensive coordinator.

"It's awesome. You can tell that he has a true passion for this game with the energy and stuff that he brings every day to practice," said McCormick. "It's been pretty cool to be able to feed off that. And I feel like everybody does."

McCormick knows Smith is looked at as a mild-manner individual off-the-field and that's what gets the juices flowing when it's different on the field.

"I think it's fun. I think building that competitive environment, in a controlled setting like practice is super beneficial to us," said McCormick. "To be able to ramp up the stakes, it makes it feel like it's fourth and one in a big, big game. It's pretty cool. And it allows us to adapt and be ready for whatever is to come."

Keeping it tight: It's no secret that offensive coordinator Arthur Smith likes to use the tight end in his offense.

And this year, the Steelers are loaded up at the position.

Veteran Pat Freiermuth leads the group, with Connor Heyward, Darnell Washington, MyCole Pruitt, Matt Sokol and Rodney Williams, who was injured during camp, all in the mix.

Smith's goal is to get all of them involved in the offense as much as he can, utilizing all of their strengths, something he is still learning about.

"All these guys, they are finding out what their strengths are, how it fits the overall scheme, but it's been fun," said Smith. "When you can play with multiple tight ends, guys that can do a lot especially on those early downs—it has been a good camp for those guys.

"It's unfortunate that Rodney got hurt and we're working him back in—he was having a good spring and camp. But MyCole Pruitt, Darnell, Pat, it's a good group, good mix."

He could go all the way: A hole opened up during the first rep of a kickoff return drill on Wednesday and it appeared kickoff returner John Rhys Plumlee had the room and the speed needed to take the ball to the house.

At least, that's what it looked like.

"Absolutely," Plumlee insisted. "At least, that's what I would like to think. It's hard to tell when we're Steelers-on-Steelers, were not going to the ground (tackling) in that period.
"But I'd like to think so."

Plumlee's listed position on the roster is "QB" but he's been doing a little bit of everything in an effort to keep his name on the roster.

That's afforded Plumlee a chance to view the new kickoff procedures from the back end, a most interesting perspective.

"Obviously, you're taking the big hit out of the blocks," he observed. "You're taking out big guys moving really quickly at each other. You're just shrinking that distance.

"I think it turns more into like an inside-zone, like an offensive play. You're going to have to work off of the blocks that are in front of you. It's not necessarily going to be a lot of doubles (double-team blocks). You might get a couple but it's going to be tough considering it all happens so quickly."

Plumlee, a 1,000-yard rusher at Mississippi in 2019, has also been practicing catching punts during training camp.

His Wednesday ended with the running a two-minute drill that came up short of covering the required 60 yards for a touchdown in 1:50 (Plumlee was 4-for-8 passing for 30 yards on the march).

"Trying to get better at it," he said of punt returning. "I've made some great strides. Early on I was terrible, I felt like I was dropping every ball. But now I feel like I'm really securing the catch a lot better.

"Just trying to expand my role. I want to grow my game as a quarterback, keep learning and developing, continue to sharpen my game, and then fill any role that I can."

-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta

Upcoming schedule: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is underway and here is a look at what's to come over the next few days.

Thursday, August 8 - 10:30 a.m.
Sunday, August 11 - 2:55 p.m.
Monday, August 12 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.
1:55 p.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 10:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.

Wednesday, August 7

Feeling great: While he won't play on Friday night against the Houston Texans, quarterback Russell Wilson is back at practice, getting in work in team drills and feeling good again.

"I'm feeling great," said Wilson. "Just to be fully in practice and involved and doing everything. I've been involved in doing all the drills and everything for the past seven, eight days, however many days it has been. But to be fully in there with the team drills, everything else, it feels great."

Wilson was limited during camp with a calf injury early on by has steadily worked his way back in the drills.

He knows he has to do what is best for the team in the long run but not playing this week, but his desire is to always play, whether it's preseason or not.

"I always want to play," said Wilson. "Anytime you get the strap on the pads, it's a blessing.

"Whether it's preseason or if it's regular season, obviously which matters a lot more, or in the postseason, which is even more important. Just be out there with your teammates and everything else.

"The good thing is I get to take everything in and just learn and be in that stadium for the first time. I can't wait. It's going to be amazing to be in Acrisure Stadium wearing the black and gold."

Wilson isn't certain what the plan is going forward for the remainder of the preseason, noting that is in Coach Mike Tomlin's hands. But he has had seasons where he didn't play at all in the preseason, something the veteran quarterback is accustomed to.

"I'm prepared to play. It's whatever Coach decides," said Wilson. "He's the boss man. He gets to make the decisions on that, but I'll be ready to go.

"There's been several where I haven't played, so it's nothing new. I've been fortunate to play 200 games or something like that, so I know what it looks like. I know the speed of it.

"More than anything else, you go against each other every day, but when you get to play another team, a different jersey, it just more exciting.

"I'm looking forward to our football team, this season and where we can go."

More than a chip on his shoulder: Running back Jaylen Warren came into the NFL as an undrafted free agent, starting out in junior college before playing at Oklahoma State, so he approaches every day a little bit different than most.

"I still have the mentality that I am trying to make the team every day," said Warren. "I don't ever want to get complacent. That's just not me. Especially where I come from. That JUCO lifestyle. Days like this, the hard days, I think back to those days.

"I'm grateful for where I'm at right now. I don't ever want to let anything slip by being complacent."

The way he came into the NFL has left a chip on Warren's shoulder.

And not just one chip.

"It's a whole box of Pringles and then some," said Warren. "I have the whole stack, the whole box on my shoulder."

Ready to roll: After three weeks of training camp, and an offseason of preparation, rookies will get their first real taste of the NFL on Friday night when the Steelers host the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium in the preseason opener.

For the Steelers offensive linemen, three of whom were selected in the 2024 NFL Draft including first-round pick Troy Fautanu, second-round pick Zach Frazier and fourth-round pick Mason McCormick, the game can't come soon enough.

"I can't wait for it," said Frazier, the center from West Virginia. "Just excited to hit someone new. The fun part is playing football, so just can't wait to do that."

While the rookies have donned their uniforms for photoshoots, this time, putting that jersey on is going to be a completely different feeling.

"It's definitely going to be special, especially playing at home, at Acrisure Stadium," said Frazier. "It's going to be special. It's going to be a cool experience. I can't wait."

He isn't the only one who feels that way.

"It'll be pretty cool," said McCormick, the guard from South Dakota State. "My first time really wearing a Steelers jersey and getting out there on that field.

"I just want to be a good representative of this organization and play the right way."

The last few weeks of camp have prepared both Frazier and McCormick for what to expect on Friday night, with the intensity high and the hitting getting them ready for the real thing.

"Every day gets a little bit easier for me, I get a little bit more comfortable, learn more and more," said Frazier. "I just get better every day. It's definitely more intense than OTAs. I'm definitely learning more than OTAs, but it's great."

McCormick has stepped up in camp protecting his quarterback, even if it means getting a little scrappy at times. But it's what he does.

"They want us to be physical and play with high effort," said McCormick. "We've got a lot of guys that do that at a high level. It's been cool to learn and absorb information from them and see how they work.

"I take pride in protecting the quarterback. That is what I am going to do."

Safety valve: Steelers sixth-round pick Ryan Watts is listed on the roster as a defensive back, and that's a good move as he has been used at multiple positions.

Watts mainly played cornerback in college, but got work at safety during OTAs and continues to work at the spot in training camp.

"It's a big difference," said Watts. "I am getting a little more comfortable at safety every day. As I get more comfortable, I can play faster, make more plays."

Watts, who is 6-3, said he can use his size to an advantage as he works at the position.

"Just being able to use my length and physicality," said Watts of the qualities he has that work at safety. "I also feel like I communicate well. Just being able to communicate to the defense, being able to play fast.

"At safety you are almost the quarterback of the defense alongside the linebackers. You are able to make those checks, make sure everybody hears you."

Whatever is asked of him, Watts is willing to adapt and do it, as he loves the defense so far.

"It's physical," said Watts. "People told me it's going to be one of the harder training camps. I thought it can't be more than college. In college they run you to the dirt.

"But it's hard. I think that is what makes the team so good, having that physicality every year. It brings the best out of you.

"That is the best way to do it. You get the best out of everybody."

He said it: Guard Isaac Seumalo on defensive tackle Cameron Heyward:

"Cam is still cam. I have nothing but respect for the guy. We go against each other a lot, and it's always iron on iron. Hopefully there's mutual respect. He's a hell of a player and a future Gold Jacket guy.

"Throughout my career, I've always gotten to practice against really good players, and it's made me a better player."

Upcoming schedule: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is underway and here is a look at what's to come over the next few days.

Wednesday, August 7 - 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 8 - 10:30 a.m.
Sunday, August 11 - 2:55 p.m.
Monday, August 12 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.
1:55 p.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 10:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.

Tuesday, August 6

Lining up: The Steelers used a lot of their draft capital on the offensive line this year, selecting tackle Troy Fautanu in the first round, center Zach Frazier in the second round, and guard Mason McCormick in the fourth round.

And so far, all three are pulling their weight in training camp and showing continued improvement.

"You can tell they've been working and grinding," said guard Isaac Seumalo. "They're older rookies and mature guys. They've been real pros about all of this. I think they've been doing a great job."

With such talented high draft picks at the position, when they step in to the mix is something that has yet to be determined, and might not even be until in season, but Seumalo welcomes whatever they bring to the table.

"I think Coach (Mike) Tomlin does a great job," said Seumalo. "He's been emphasizing the young big guys. And for a good point. We need them. O-line, d-line always needs a lot of depth and a lot of really good players. And they're really good.

"It's just a step-by-step process. It's kind of living in the moment and understanding it's up and down. But as they gradually get better, which everybody has really improved since day one of OTAs."

"It's always next man up mentality. O-line wise, it's always five-wheel drive. You really need about seven, eight, nine guys that everybody can trust and are accountable."

Fautanu is getting plenty of work and showing his accountability early on, especially going against veteran linebacker T.J. Watt in one-on-one drills.

"That's a very one-sided drill," said Seumalo. "He's doing pretty good. We all know who T.J. is. At the end of the day, everyone's trying to figure out who Troy is and what kind of player all three of the guys are. They're building a really good legacy of guys who are smart and just want to work and get better. Troy is no exception."

Burgh Proud: Pirates Manager Derek Shelton and General Manger Ben Cherington were at training camp on Tuesday morning, visiting with Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin, General Manager Omar Khan and former GM Kevin Colbert.

There is a strong relationship among the group, and Shelton appreciates coming out to camp and sharing ideas and thoughts that can sometimes translate from one sport to another.

"It's so fun. I think any time that I get a chance to be around Mike, it's just inspiring to be able to be in this environment and watch the enthusiasm," said Shelton. "They're doing the seven shots drill, which is something that he kind of explained to me this past offseason, something we've instituted into our daily work just from a conversation we had. But, just excited to be up here and support the Steelers."

Shelton and Tomlin became quick friends when Shelton was hired in 2019, and that friendship has done nothing but grow.

"I really appreciate the fact that he has been here for so long," said Shelton. "When I came in, he had a previous relationship with Clint (Hurdle) which is great. And Clint even told me when I came in, make sure that you start this relationship with Mike. He embraced me as being a Pittsburgh sports manager and being able to have someone like that is really important."

Also on hand was Bret Michaels, the Butler, Pa. native and rock icon.

"For me, this is like one of the best days ever," said Michaels. "This is like a Super Bowl meets Christmas meets New Year's Day. This is like the trifecta of awesomeness. And coming down here, getting to come down here with Mike T and meet everybody. It's a good day.

"I got to throw a football on the field with my buddy Charlie Batch. It was great."

Moore left: When the Steelers selected offensive tackle Troy Fautanu in the first round of this year's NFL Draft, it marked the second consecutive season the team has taken a player at the position in the first round of the past two drafts.

Yet, as the offseason program ended and training camp has worn on, incumbent Dan Moore Jr. has continued to hold onto the starting left tackle job for the Steelers, a position he has held in each of the previous three seasons.
Moore isn't simply going to cede his starting left tackle job.

"I think it's just having unwavering faith and confidence, really," Moore said. "I'm just trying to control what I can control and focus on me. It's me versus me. I have trust and faith that as long as I do what I'm supposed to do, everything will work out."

The Steelers have kept 2023 first-round pick Broderick Jones at right tackle, playing Fautanu behind him on the right side to this point. But general manager Omar Khan said at the NFL Scouting Combine earlier this year that the team sees Jones as its eventual starting left tackle.

Moore, a fourth-round draft pick in 2021, has started 49 games at left tackle, missing just two games in his young career. And the 25-year-old is now the most experienced tackle on the team's roster.

He's not been afraid to offer the young tackles his mentorship.

"Knowing the role I'm stepping into now, being the older guy, I'm the guy who has been here," Moore said. "It's crazy to think how young I am and I'm the most experienced tackle in the room. Those guys are coming to me every chance they get. (I'm) just being a resource to them. That's been my role."

That, and to continue to improve.

Heading into his fourth season, Moore spent the offseason training and improving his diet, something he feels has helped make him a stronger player.

"I tried to tighten up on my diet this spring. Last spring, I had a really good diet." Moore said. "This year was more tracking protein, adding a little more supplements to my diet, focusing on strength.
"It was kind of something I did on my own."

The idea is to make it as difficult as possible for the Steelers or the young offensive linemen to move him out of the starting job he's held down the past three seasons.

"I just want to keep getting better each and every time I step on that field," Moore said. "Every time I report back, I just want them to say, 'He's a different player.'"

-- Blog entry by Dale Lolley

Upcoming schedule: Steelers Training Camp, presented by FedEx, is underway and here is a look at what's to come over the next few days.

Tuesday, August 6 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 7 - 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 8 - 10:30 a.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.

10:30 a.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 8:00 a.m.
1:55 p.m. practices - Parking lots will open at 10:30 a.m. and fans can enter camp starting at 11:00 a.m.

All who attend Training Camp will be eligible to win prizes and giveaways, participate in family activities, take advantage of photo opportunities, get gear direct from the team at the Steelers Pro Shop and more.

Date and times subject to change. Practice may be cancelled or moved due to inclement weather. Download the Steelers Official Mobile App (https://yi.nzc.am/55/cx8seB) to opt in to Training Camp push notifications (Settings > Notifications), and/or follow along on all Steelers digital platforms, for the latest weather and practice updates should they become available.