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Offseason Program

Back at it again

The UPMC Rooney Sports Complex was abuzz on Tuesday as players were back in town for the first day of voluntary workouts as part of Phase One of the NFL's offseason program.

"It's always good to see the building busy, moving and active," said receiver Calvin Austin III. "It's good to get that football feel back."

From young players to newly signed veterans, it was a packed house as the team began preparation for the 2025 season.

"I'm just trying to get acquainted with my new teammates, so I'm not just showing up during training camp and thinking everybody's just going to let me just walk in," said receiver DK Metcalf, who was acquired via a trade this offseason. "I'm just trying to work my way from the ground up, trying to get to know everybody, show everybody I'm a hard worker, and try to gain respect and trust from my teammates.

"I don't think just talking about it is going to move needles or do anything for me. I think it's me coming up here, showing my face and really just putting myself in the team setting amongst everybody and in the end, they can really see the type of person that I am.

"Everybody was coming up introducing themselves to me, I was introducing myself to people. The camaraderie is already being built, and it starts now to build momentum for the season."

Players arrive for the first day of Phase One of the Steelers voluntary offseason workout program

Phase One consists of the first two weeks of the program with activities limited to meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation only.

But it's about more than that.

"It's great because this is the official start of the new year," said receiver Calvin Austin III. "This is a time you can get in and meet the new guys and get your first feel of team.

"It's just good to be here because the only way to get better is to be in the building and work. To build those bonds and connections with people, you have to be inside the building, working and seeing them. This is just the start of it. This is just the first time you showcase who you are to everyone, not just the coaches, but your teammates as well."

For linebacker Payton Wilson, who is entering his second season, taking part in the full offseason program for the first time is ideal.

"I'm excited to be back," said Wilson. "We've got a lot of people here. I'm excited for this year.

"It's a massive culture building time. If you can get as many people as you can here at this time of the year, it's the teams that are usually the closest, obviously the most talented, but the close teams always persevere, and they pull through and this fundamental phase definitely helps with that."

Wilson said it's night and day this year from his rookie season, when he didn't know what to expect.

"It's a whole different world," said Wilson. "Last year was just a lot, going from the college season to going to train and the draft and being here. You didn't really get any breaks. So now I'm just refueling my mind, reset and I'm ready to help this team win the Super Bowl."

Players arrive for the first week of Phase One of the Steelers voluntary offseason workout program

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