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Camp Blog: Setting the tone

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.

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.

See the best photos of fans from the third week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

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.

See the best photos from the third week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

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.

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

Training-Camp-Roster-Update

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.

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.

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."

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

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."

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

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

See the best photos of fans from the second week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

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.

See the best black and white photos from the second week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

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.

Sunday, August 4

Earning some praise: It's not often players and coaches sing the praises of a rookie just a week into training camp, but it's not often a rookie makes the earlier impression that linebacker Payton Wilson has.

Wilson, one of the team's third-round picks this year, has caught everyone's attention being the first player on the field on a regular basis to get his normal warm-up in before practice starts.

But it doesn't stop there.

His conditioning, his approach, just everything he is doing is earning words of praise.

"He's highly conditioned. I think it starts there, and it's showing itself in the form of hustle and finish. And sometimes hustle and finish puts you in position to do some of those things," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "We don't ask a lot of the new guys, but we do ask them to come ready for the work. He is highly conditioned and appears to be in position in that regard."

Wilson has been leaning on fellow inside linebackers Elandon Roberts, Patrick Queen and newly signed Tyler Matakevich to help him in the adjustment and is never afraid to ask questions.

"Payton's a great guy, great teammate," said Queen. "Very cool, calm demeanor guy. But on the football field he turns into a whole other animal. He's been a sponge. Soaking up everything he can, asking a whole bunch of questions. That is how you are supposed to be as a rookie. He is playing super fast, super strong."

Wilson and Matakevich share a common bond, both past winners of the Bednarik Award, presented to the nation's top defensive player. Wilson won the award in 2023, Matakevich in 2015.

"He's going to be a special player," said Matakevich. "He's a freak. I didn't realize how big he was until I actually saw him once I came up here. I saw him get drafted and stuff like that.

"He can flat out fly. He's a smart kid. I definitely think the sky's the limit for him."

Welcoming back an old friend: Linebacker Markus Golden is thrilled to be back in the black and gold after the veteran signed with the team this week, and his teammates are happy to have him back.

Fellow outside linebacker Alex Highsmith said it can do nothing but help the defense to have him back in the mix.

"He was very productive for us, so it's awesome having him back," said Highsmith. "A veteran in our locker room. So, super excited for.

"He's just a great guy, a great player. He's an OG in this league, so having him adds a lot of value to our defense, to our team."

Highsmith said that Golden's knowledge of the defense, the way he approaches things and is professionalism are important in multiple ways.

"It's important to have selfless guys like that," said Highsmith. "If you have a bunch of selfless guys on the team, that makes a great team. He is someone that knows the system because he was here last year. Having him come back is big for us.

"He's been in the league for a while, so he knows the game. Having guys like him and Nick (Herbig) come in and make a lot of plays is huge for us, just like last year."

Not changing things: As training camp is progressing, there is more talk about how good the Steelers defense can be, and linebacker T.J. Watt knows there are keys to making sure they reach that potential.

"Control the line of scrimmage. Stop the run," said Watt. "All the normal things.

"We need to be able to not have those big explosive plays. Last year we had too many explosive plays, explosive runs. We need to eliminate those."

The keys Watt points out are ones the defense always makes sure they focus on, with stopping the run always being at the top of the list.

"That's always the same," said Watt. "Each and every year there is no secret sauce. It's just stop the run and get them behind the chains."

Offensive agenda: The defense bounced back and captured "Seven Shots," the Steelers' signature, practice-opening, two-point conversion/short-yardage drill by a 5-2 count on what at times became a steamy Saturday at Saint Vincent College.

But the ferocious "Friday Night Lights" edition of "Backs-on-'Backers" continued to resonate with the offense.

"That's the most energetic I've seen," assessed tight end Pat Freiermuth, who is entering his fourth season with the Steelers. "It was great competition. Iron sharpens iron and that was the definition of it. Yeah, it was awesome.

"Some drills are slanted in our favor, some are slanted in the defense's favor. That's one that is slanted in the defense's favor. We smile in the face of it, like 'Coach T' (head coach Mike Tomlin) says, and we compete."

The offense has been all about competition and physicality in training camp. The unit's 7-0 shutout in "Seven Shots" on Friday night was a recent example of how the offense has been putting its collective commitment into practice.

"We're trying to get to that next step and we're trying to do whatever we can to get success in the playoffs," Freiermuth emphasized.

Running back Najee Harris, against linebacker Patrick Queen, and running back Jaylen Warren, against linebacker Elandon Roberts, were the physical tone-setters on Friday night.

"They're energized," Freiermuth assessed. "They're competing, they're doing really well in this new offense and I'm excited to see how they play off each other this year."

Freiermuth and the tight ends, meanwhile, have regularly been deployed two or more at a time and they're being consistently targeted. Enough that Freiermuth can sense the potential for a big season ahead.

"That's the plan," he said. "It's been great. I gotta continue to work, stay healthy and continue to work with the quarterbacks, build that chemistry."

-- 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.

Sunday, August 4 - 1:55 p.m.
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.

Saturday, August 3

A happy return: It might have taken some time, but linebacker Markus Golden had faith he would be back with the Steelers this season.

"I'm just happy to be here," said Golden. "Happy to be back with the Steelers. Man, I love playing here. To be able to do it another year. I'm excited.

"This is year 10. If I can get a little break and then come in and be able to fly around and be ready. So, they kept in great contact with me. That's what I love about the Steelers, they kept in great contact with me. They said they were going to bring me in, and they made it happen and I appreciate it. I like this organization. I'm excited to be here."

Golden, who is entering his 10th year in the NFL, was signed by the Steelers earlier this week. He originally joined the team in the 2023 offseason, and finished the 2023 season with 20 tackles, 14 of them solo stops, four sacks, six tackles for a loss, a pass defensed and a fumble recovery. His four sacks ranked third on the team behind fellow outside linebackers T.J. Watt (19) and Alex Highsmith (7).

Golden loved being a part of the defense and wants to keep it going.

"It's a good fit. Man, it's the Pittsburgh Steelers. Outside linebackers fly around, make plays. That's the type of player I am. Whatever role I get, I'll be ready for it."

Showing up big-time: One of the more energetic drills during training camp is the 'backs on backers,' and once again it didn't disappoint.

During Friday Night Lights at Latrobe Memorial Stadium, the duo of running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren were on fire, going against linebackers Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts respectfully.

"I did my absolute best," said Warren. "If I was 1% off, he would have run over me and embarrassed me, and I couldn't let that happen.

"It gets competitive. I feel like the more competition we bring, the better and closer we get together."

If Harris wasn't going against Queen, he was standing right there, loudly cheering on his teammates, giving them the extra edge they needed.

"That is the leader of the room," said Warren of Harris. "Back our leader up. Our leader backs us up. We are grateful to have a leader like him."

Warren walked away from the practice with a strong feeling that the backs won the drill, but knows it was an all-around effort.

"I would say we won it today," said Warren. "It takes all of us to win it. It takes every part of us. Every percent. Props to those guys."

And speaking of props, Warren is getting them from all around.

First, from veteran guard Isaac Seumalo.

"I love Jaylen. I mean he's a dawg," said Seumalo. "Everybody knows. You know how he runs, how he practices, how he prepares. So much respect for him, and knowing every time he touches the ball, something exciting probably is going to happen."

The other one giving him props was Warren's grandmother, who was at Friday Night Lights cheering her grandson on as he went hard in backs on backers. Warren said he couldn't hear her yelling, and hopes she couldn't hear him as he was getting feisty in the drill.

"I hope she couldn't hear me," said Warren. "I don't want my grandma hearing what I was saying."

The Steelers travel to Latrobe Memorial Stadium for the annual Friday Night Lights practice

Taking full advantage: With quarterback Russell Wilson dealing with a calf injury the first few weeks of training camp, fellow quarterback Justin Fields has been doing his thing and earning praise from all around.

Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is the latest to sing his praises, saying Fields is operating the offense well.

"Justin has done a fantastic job, and we are getting to know him," said Smith. "Russell's time will come. Good thing is Russ is a veteran, these are critical reps for Justin."

Smith isn't the only one who likes what he has seen from Fields.

Veteran guard Isaac Seumalo loves what Fields brings to the offense.

"There's no doubt he's an incredible athlete," said Seumalo. "That was present from day one. He's also improved. You look at his statistics from his past three seasons with Chicago. He's always done better. Last year was his best season.

"I'm sure he expects a lot out of himself, and the way him and Russ approach it, there's no animosity. It's all about getting better and what's best for the team."

Gaining great experience: Bam Bryant and Greg Bowser II are both with the Steelers during training camp as part of the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship Program.

Bryant is in his seventh season as wide receivers coach at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. During his time, the Bulldogs have won outright or shared the last five MACCC South championships.

Bowser is in his first season at Missouri Southern, serving as the assistant defensive line coach. He joined Missouri Southern from the University of Louisiana, where he was on the coaching staff since 2019, including part of four straight SBC Western Division championships and two SBC championships in 2020 and 2021.

About the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship:

The NFL Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship is proud to celebrate 30+ years of helping outstanding coaches gain exposure to NFL training camps and offseason workout programs.

The program's objective is to use NFL clubs' training camps, offseason workout programs and minicamps to give talented coaches opportunities to:

- Observe
- Participate
- Gain experience
- Ultimately gain a full-time NFL coaching position

Designed as a vocational tool to increase the number of full-time NFL minority coaches, all 32 NFL clubs participate each year. Specific aspects of the program — including hiring, compensation and coaching duties — are administered on a club-by-club basis. The NFL does not mandate any elements of the fellowship to the clubs, but it recommends several best practices, including:

- Hiring participants for the duration of training camp, including all pre-season games.
- Encouraging clubs to hire at least two fellows with an offensive coaching background.
- Mentoring participants in the form of continuing and constructive feedback regarding their work while with the club.

Patient approach: Second-round center Zach Frazier hasn't yet gotten the first-team opportunities afforded to fellow rookie Payton Wilson and Troy Fautanu, but Frazier isn't sweating it.

"That's not really something that I'm worried about in my mind," he said. "I'm just taking it day by day and trying to put myself to be the best that I can be and then doing everything in my power to earn that spot.

"That's all I'm doing is taking it day by day. I'm not too focused on it."

The veteran who is most engaged in helping Frazier along the way is first-team center Nate Herbig.

"Definitely Nate, he's definitely taken me under his wing," Frazier said. "I go to him to ask him questions and he gives me plenty of pointers.

"He's really helped me out a lot."

– 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.

Saturday, August 3 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 4 - 1:55 p.m.
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.

Friday, August 2

Under the lights: The Steelers will hop on school buses on Friday evening and head to Latrobe Memorial Stadium for the annual Friday Night Lights practice.

It has become a tradition that players love and look forward to every year, a change of scenery from the normal schedule and an enthusiastic crowd that energizes them.

"Oh, it's so fun," said offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. "With the fans being out there, it's almost like a little scrimmage that we do, especially under the lights at night. Just a different time of the day, a change of scenery.

"I always love going over there and having Friday Night Lights," said Moore. "It reminds you of high school again. Honestly, it humbles you a little bit. Brings you back to those days when you didn't have all the resources that you have now. It reminds you of when you were just playing a game, didn't have too many worries, you were just out there having fun."

While Moore has experienced Friday Night Lights, some newcomers to the team will be enjoying it for the first time and are excited for what it holds.

"It will probably definitely bring back high school memories," said quarterback Justin Fields. "I'm excited for it. I haven't experienced anything like that since high school. It's going to be fun. I hear the atmosphere is crazy. I think it will be a good thing for the fans, too.

"It takes you back, makes you appreciate things. When I was in high school, I never thought I would be here right now. It's like a full circle moment being back on a high school field."

It might seem like an eternity to him, but it wasn't that long ago that rookie number one pick Troy Fautanu was in high school, and he is excited to get those memories back.

"It changes up the scenery," said Fautanu. "To be able to play under the lights on a Friday night, it reminds me of how many years ago I was back in high school. It's going to be a really cool atmosphere. Super excited to practice in it.

"I'm just ready to go. I'm treating it like another day of practice, but a little bit more glow with the lights on.

"It will take me back. Even when I go back home and visit my high school and see all my coaches and see how far I've come, how far I need to go in order to achieve my goals. It's always good to remind yourself where you started and see how far you've come."

Smith fired up: Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith hasn't been afraid to show his emotions during training camp, and even though his group has been thrown a curveball with quarterback Russell Wilson sidelined with a calf injury, Smith has been pleased with the team's offensive progress.

That included Thursday's practice, where Smith was vocal about the first-team offense scoring a touchdown in a two-minute situation on a 4-yard touchdown pass from Justin Fields to George Pickens in traffic over linebacker Patrick Queen.

"I was fired up," Smith said. "It wasn't perfect, it never is. Some of it's not real – the quarterback knows he's not getting hit. But, as best as we can in this environment, you're finding out about guys, and that's just competitive spirit."

Fields has been taking the first-team snaps with Wilson still sidelined, and it's allowed the Steelers and Smith to get to know more about Fields and his abilities.

The Steelers signed Wilson via free agency in the offseason, then acquired Fields via trade with the Bears, but Wilson took the majority of the snaps with the first-team offense throughout the offseason program.

"When you're changing language on guys, especially a young player, he's gotten experienced snaps here," Smith said. "He's been in a couple systems now. This is his third system, offensively, going from his first year in Chicago, to last year. Everybody has different terminology. And, then things you harp on and things he wanted from a self-improvement (standpoint). So, we're all working through that.

"He's really operating the offense well, there's a lot of things that he can play to his strengths, and that's exciting. Sometimes, we're asking him to be aggressive, even in these seven-on-seven drills, we have to try to practice. Nobody wants to see negative plays, but if we just sit there and check down for completion percentage in practice, we've got to see what we can really do and what he can see in the pocket, and all that stuff. But, again, him having more reps – to me – has accelerated that process."

— Blog entry by Dale Lolley

It's all about family: There isn't a day that goes by at training camp that there aren't Steelers legends on hand, there to support the current players and be a part of the Steelers family.

And one player who really enjoyed that family aspect is Hall of Fame safety Troy Polamalu.

Polamalu was at camp off and on throughout the first two weeks, while his two sons, Paisios and Ephraim, who worked the first few weeks as ballboys and stayed at camp.

"I'm happy for them," said Polamalu. "But to me, it's no different than if I dropped them off at another friend's house. I leave him with family, and everybody here knows who they are. And it's not just my children. It's all of the player's children. It's just really cool for them to have that experience.

"I have some utmost confidence and comfort with anybody in this organization. You're Auntie Teresa, everybody's auntie something or uncle something here. So, it's a blessing.

"And for me, it's always great to be back. This is a very special organization. Home is always home. And that's the beautiful thing about being alumni here, the great ownership that we have and the great coach that we have allowing not only myself, but my entire family to come back and be part of the organization and opening the door for everybody. Whether you've been a starter here for several years or you put in less time, the support everyone gets is what's beautiful about this organization, what really stands out amongst other organizations."

Polamalu was often seen watching the secondary, talking to players like Minkah Fitzpatrick, and just taking it all in while at camp.

But what he enjoys the most is the family atmosphere.

"I have the utmost respect for all the guys that are currently playing," said Polamalu. "They represent the Steelers, and we represent the Steelers on all levels. Whether you're a retired player, or whether you're an equipment manager here, there is such a high standard of what it takes to be a Steeler. It's really beautiful to bring my family back and always see what the standard is, and really sometimes remind people what the standard is too.

"I'm just grateful to be back and be in the fold to be able to have some influence. I had the blessing of having guys like Rod Woodson and Carnell Lake come back. There's a lot of great people that have come back. I think that's what makes this organization really unique."

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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.

Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.
Saturday, August 3 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 4 - 1:55 p.m.
Tuesday, August 6 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 7 - 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.

Thursday, August 1

Twice as nice for Trice: His rookie season wasn't anything close to what cornerback Cory Trice Jr. anticipated, spending the entire year on the Reserve/Injured list after the promising cornerback was injured in training camp.

Trice, who was selected by the Steelers in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the 241st overall pick, was a player the coaching staff was excited about right out of the gate.

But on the first day in pads last year, his season ended.

Fast forward to 2024 and Trice was on the field for the first day in pads and feeling great.

"I'm in a real good spot right now," said Trice. "We're just taking it day-by-day. I'm out here. I got my pads on. I am feeling good.

"I am blessed to be out here. Last year how it went down. The fact that I am still out here is a blessing."

Trice said last year gave him a better appreciation for what he has in front of him right now.

"I definitely appreciate it," said Trice. "Just being out here. Stacking days and continuing to improve.

"I am trying to work my way up the depth chart, continue to ball. The best ability is availability. That is what I am focusing on right now."

Slot options: The Steelers are looking at their options in a slot defender this season, and the winner might be dependent upon who the team plays in a certain week.

Currently, veteran safety DeShon Elliott and undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop are getting the majority of the snaps in the slot with the first-team defense. The Steelers also know that veteran Cameron Sutton, signed in June, can handle those duties, though he was suspended by the NFL for the first eight games of the regular season.

Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin has liked what he's seen of the team's slot options.

"We are still working through this, but those guys got some good work in the spring and now we're going to see how it fleshes out here in camp with pads on and a little bit more competitive," Austin said. "You can actually make a little bit more informed decisions that way. So, right now, that's how we are working."

Elliott, signed in free agency this offseason, is slated to be the team's starting strong safety next to Minkah Fitzpatrick. But Austin also has toyed with a three-safety package that adds Damontae Kazee to the equation, allowing Elliott to slide up into the slot. That alignment also gives the Steelers the option to move Fitzpatrick or Kazee into the slot, as well.

"He likes to be down in the box," Austin said. "He's a tough, physical guy. He's a good pro, so I like the fact – the biggest thing is he's a contact player."

Bishop, a West Virginia product, doesn't have Elliott's size, but the 5-foot-10, 184-pound corner offers more speed.

"Beanie gives you a little bit, because he gives you some speed, he gives you some ability to cover, he is – from what we saw with college tape and things we are starting to see now – he is a pretty tough guy and he's a pretty competitive guy," Austin said. "So, that gives him the baseline that you need him to play in there."

Veteran Grayland Arnold, who played the past two seasons with the Texans, also has flashed, picking off passes in each of the past two practices.

"I'm not going to sit here and say that's how it's going to be — it could change based on performance, based on some things we see from other guys," Austin said.

– Blog entry from Dale Lolley

Taking command: Nate Herbig has his mind set on one thing.

Being the Steelers starting center.

He has handled the job since the team released Mason Cole this offseason, and even with the addition of second-round pick Zach Frazier has been getting the first-team reps.

"I understand what comes with it," said Herbig. "I understand my responsibility to the offense, to the offensive line to the team in general, so I don't take that lightly.

"I am serious about it. I am going to do my best to make sure we are all on the same page and things are running smoothly."

That is something guard Isaac Seumalo isn't worried about. He knows what Herbig brings to the offensive line and loves what he sees from him.

"Nate's as smart as they come," said Seumalo. "Really good athlete. Obviously big and strong. I think just his command, especially when plays either go south or there's a new look, or when everything kind of hits the wall.

"You need a center that's very commanding in that way and can see everything. He's doing a great job and he's been ballin' this whole camp."

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 1 - 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.
Saturday, August 3 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 4 - 1:55 p.m.
Tuesday, August 6 - 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 7 - 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.

Steelers sign Golden: The Steelers signed linebacker Markus Golden to a one-year contract.

Golden, who will be entering his 10th year in the NFL, was signed by the Steelers last offseason. He finished the 2023 season with 20 tackles, 14 of them solo stops, four sacks, six tackles for a loss, a pass defensed and a fumble recovery. His four sacks ranked third on the team behind fellow outside linebackers T.J. Watt (19) and Alex Highsmith (7).

Golden played in 16 games, as well as starting the team's AFC Wild Card game with Watt out injured.

"I just love to compete," said Golden at the end of the 2023 season. "When you have been playing something since you were a kid, if you really love it like you did as a kid, it never leaves. That's how I look at it. I have been loving ball since I was a kid, being able to play it now as a man, I still have that same feeling in my heart.

"I make sure I have fun. No matter what, I make sure I have fun. I love playing for Mike T. I love working hard and playing football, so I fit right in."

In nine seasons, Golden has played in 127 games, starting 68 of them. He has a total of 343 career tackles, 51 sacks, and 68 tackles for a loss. He has 11 forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries, one returned for a touchdown.

Before joining the Steelers, Golden spent part of three years with the Arizona Cardinals, the team that originally selected him in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

Golden was traded to the Cardinals by the Giants during the 2020 season, playing in seven games for New York, with one start, and nine with the Cardinals, starting eight of them.

Golden signed with the Giants as an unrestricted free agent in 2019, and his first season there started all 16 games. He had a career-high 72 tackles, 37 of them solo stops, and led the Giants with 10 sacks.

He played his first four seasons with the Cardinals and had a career-high 12.5 sacks in 2016 while playing in 16 games with only three starts.

Golden played college ball at Missouri where he appeared in 39 games, starting 13, and recorded 143 tackles, 33 tackles for a loss, 16.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and an interception.

To make room for him on the roster the team waived/injuree linebacker David Perales.

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

Steelers sign Black: In case you missed it, the Steelers signed receiver Tarik Black.

Black originally signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent following the 2021 NFL Draft. He spent time on the Colts practice squad in 2021, but was released before the end of the season.

Black was signed by the New York Jets practice squad late in the 2021 season and was elevated for the final game of the year, making two catches for 10 yards. He spent part of the 2022 season on the Jets practice squad as well.

The Ravens added Black to their practice squad in 2023.

Black spent one season at the University of Texas where he appeared in eight games in 2020, finishing with 10 receptions for 240 yards and one touchdown. Before joining the Longhorns, he spent three years at Michigan where he appeared in 21 games, starting nine. He finished with 40 receptions for 507 yards and two touchdowns.

To make room for him on the roster, the team released defensive lineman Jonathan Marshall.

Wednesday, July 31

Learning the tricks of the trade: Getting advice from veteran players is always valuable for a young linebacker.

Getting advice from James Harrison, that takes it to another level.

That's exactly what second-year linebacker Nick Herbig did on Wednesday, seeking out Harrison who was on hand watching practice.

"I'll talk to anybody," said Herbig. "I'll try to get information from anybody."

Fellow outside linebacker T.J. Watt was happy to see Herbig hit up Harrison for some tricks of the trade. After all, Harrison was the Steelers sack leader until Watt took over that title last season.

"Honestly, he's a great asset for any of us," said Watt. "(He has) a move that's very difficult to learn. But he's been able to get so many sacks off of that one move has. He has a couple counters as well.

"For a young guy to be able to learn from James Harrison, a guy that's a Hall of Famer, why wouldn't you try to soak up as much information as possible from him. It's so cool he is willing to spend the time teaching."

Singularly focused: Isaac Seumalo is at training camp for one thing and one thing only.

To practice.

He is as no-nonsense as they come, a hard nut to crack when it comes to trying to get him to laugh or smile. He is quiet, soft-spoken, and not in a bad way, he simply likes to keep to himself.

He has one focus right now.

His love of football.

So being in a setting at Saint Vincent College for camp, where he is around others all day, socializing just happens. And he makes it work.

"They make it pretty good for us, but you have no choice but to socialize," said Seumalo. "That's the hardest part for me, during camp is trying to talk and be friendly with guys and step out of my comfort zone. But, it's cool. Now we all live in the dorms and hang out, and it's kind of college-esque a little bit that way.

"But at the end of the day, it's all ball."

And ball is what it was on Tuesday when the Steelers put on the pads for the first time at training camp and he liked the feel of it.

"Man, it's always fun," said Seumalo. "At the end of the day, we get to play a sport for a living. I'm living my dream, so I have no place to complain."

One thing the offense did at the start of the 7-shots drill was to come out and run the ball to try and impose their will in pads.

Seumalo doesn't care what they do – run or pass.

It's all about one result.

"It felt good. It's never going to be perfect, but the pursuit of perfection is always the goal," said Seumalo. "To be frank, I don't care if we gotta run the ball 50 times or throw the ball 50 times. I want to win."

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

High expectations: There has been a common theme among those on the Steelers defense since reporting to training camp, and that theme is one that should have fans smiling.

To a man, those on the defensive side of the ball have confidence this unit can be one of the best in the National Football League.

And they are willing to do whatever it takes to get there.

"I think it can be one of the best defenses in the NFL," said safety DeShon Elliott, who was signed as an unrestricted free agent this offseason. "It starts in our meetings, everybody doing what they need to do on the field and when it came to the break we had for the last six weeks.

"I think all that buildup, and then us building team camaraderie, us hanging out together, us becoming a closer family, that means a lot. I think that's going to be a huge step in the right direction, and just making sure that everyone understands that some days you might have a setback, but make sure we come together and take two steps forward rather than two steps back."

Linebacker T.J. Watt is of the same mindset, and credits the addition of players like Elliott through free agency to putting the defense in position to be so strong.

"We acquired some talent obviously in the draft and free agency and to see another year from the younger guys that are going to continue to get better and grow in the system," said Watt. "The more that we're able to grow together, especially on the defensive side, the better we are going to be."

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, July 31 – 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1 - 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.
Saturday, August 3 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 4 - 1:55 p.m.
Tuesday, August 6 - 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.

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.

Tuesday, July 30

A feeling in the air: There was a different energy at Steelers practice on Tuesday morning when the pads come on for the first time.

An early morning rainstorm gave way to sunshine and hot temperatures, and things heated up on the field as well.

It was the first time to hear the pads pop, and it changed the mindset.

"A lot in terms of physically," said defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk. "Mentally you have to wire in and get ready to hit more. But physically you come out here, you can start tackling, hitting people, especially the D-line, O-line.

"So, your mindset kind of has to switch. You have to be ready to go out there and give it all you've got when the pads come on. It's fun when the pads come on."

Loudermilk, who is entering his fourth season, is hoping to make a big impression now that the hitting has begun.

"I hope to help the team as much as possible," said Loudermilk. "I know what type of player I can be. I think this is the year where I can take that step and go out there and play how I want to and how I know the coaches think I can.

"Personally, this is a huge year for me. I'm taking it as that. I'm doing all the little things I can to get better every day to make sure that when the time comes, I'm able to be out there to contribute as much as I can."

Wilson getting close: Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson was in a helmet and pads on Tuesday as the team returned to the practice field. And though he only took part in one 11-on-11 play – a handoff – and a handful of seven-on-seven drills, Wilson is getting closer to working through a full practice after suffering a calf injury during the team's conditioning drill.

"I feel good. The calf is getting better and better every day," Wilson said Tuesday. "The training staff is doing a tremendous job and we're working hard every morning. It was just really good being back out here today, getting the helmet on, doing all the quarterback drills, doing the fundamental work, some of the handoffs and being there with the fellas."

Signed by the Steelers in free agency, Wilson, 35, took the majority of the first-team reps for the team during the offseason. But the calf issue has kept him sidelined thus far in this camp, giving Justin Fields, another new acquisition, the opportunity to work with the starters.

Wilson wouldn't put a timeline on his return to full practice.

"Just taking it one day at a time," he said. "I'll be ready when it's time. More than anything else, we're just trying to be smart. It's not even August yet. We've got 17 games, plus hopefully four more. That's the mentality."

One of the plays Wilson did participate in during seven-on-seven drills resulted in a long pass down the middle of the field to tight end Connor Heyward.

Wilson said that one felt good.

"That was sweet," Wilson said. "Connor made a big-time, explosive play down the field. He had a great reaction and I was able to launch it down the field to him. He said, 'Thanks for throwing me the Moon ball.' But it was a great play by him."

-- Blog entry by Dale Lolley

Loving days like this: Tight end Darnell Washington knew there was a difference in the air on Tuesday, brought on by the pads coming on for the first time.

"You wake up and you know we've got pads," said Washington. "So, you have to go in with the mindset of all day smashing people. Move around, fly around, compete."

Washington knows the pads don't come on every day, so he completely understands the importance of such a practice.

"These are very important," said Washington. "This is the only physicality to show for the guys who are trying to make the team and get spots on the roster. These are the only days for that."

Special guests: When they say you never know who you will see at Steelers training camp, they mean it.

On Tuesday, Dallas Mavericks Coach Jason Kidd, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison and North Carolina Central basketball coach LeVelle Moton were all at practice as the guests of Coach Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin and Moton are long-time friends, and he brought the other two along with him for a few days to share ideas.

"It's an incredible experience," said Kidd. "Coach Tomlin has been very open in his meetings. I just love his energy and his honesty, his trust and the culture that he's built here in Pittsburgh."

Kidd said the interaction is a great learning experience for both of them, as they can pick things up in their approaches and more.
"We can learn from each other," said Kidd. "As much as he wants to learn from me, I want to learn from him. He's never had a losing season. His energy is always high. I want to know about his culture and the vision of his culture. And how do you keep it going fresh. Because after a while, you might tell the same stories.

"Just being around him these last two days, I understand he reads a lot, he wants to get better. That's what makes him special."

Roster update: The Steelers signed cornerback Kyler McMichael and tight end Matt Sokol.

McMichael originally signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent following the 2022 NFL Draft.

He spent the 2022 season on the Buffalo Bills practice squad and also spent time this offseason with the Arizona Cardinals after they claimed him off waivers.

McMichael played college football at the University of North Carolina where he appeared in 21 games over two seasons. He recorded 44 tackles, 34 of them solo stops, one tackle for a loss, eight passes defensed and an interception.

Sokol originally signed with the Los Angeles Chargers following the 2019 NFL Draft.

He has spent time on the practice squads of the Chargers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions and New England patriots. He also spent time on the Chargers active roster.

Sokol played college football at Michigan State where he appeared in 52 games. He had 31 receptions for 348 yards and two touchdowns.

The team also released defensive back Josiah Scott and receiver Marquez Callaway.

Putting on the pads: After four days of acclimation work without the pads on, things heat up today when the Steelers put on the pads for the first time in training camp, and the first time since the 2023 season ended.

And there is no doubt, the players are ready to hear the sound of the pads popping.

"Iron sharpens iron," said safety DeShon Elliot. "How physical we are on the defensive side I think will help on the offensive side. They're not going to see another team that's as physical as us when it comes to defense. So, I think every day banging at is really good for that."

Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu, the Steelers No. 1 pick this year, said he tries to approach every day the same whether they are in pads or not, but he knows it's going to make a difference.

"For me, I am treating every day the same with or without pads," said Fautanu. "I like working on things that I can't with pads in terms of hand placement, that type of thing.

"But yeah, once you put the pads on, it's better because it's real football. That's where I know the playbook will open a lot more, and we'll be able to really get after it on offense. I know the defense will bring it every single day."

Fautanu isn't concerned about not having the pads on for almost seven months, knowing the work they put in during OTAs, minicamp and the start of training camp has them prepared.

"It's trusting in the strength and conditioning coaches here," said Fautanu. "Then with the people that I've trained with in the offseason, I felt like they got me ready. It's just a mental thing. Kind of just flip that switch when it's time to go."

For Fautanu and others on the offensive line, it will be a quick test in the pads, going against linebackers T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and company from Day 1.

"They've done a great job," said Watt. "We have a lot of new parts up front. Just to be able to compete against them, try to help them as much as they're helping us and just watch them grow. You'll see from Day1 to Day 21, those guys are going to take leaps and bounds."

Match made in heaven: Cornerback Donte Jackson quickly found a home in the Steelers secondary after he was acquired via a trade with the Carolina Panthers in the offseason, and through the first week of camp, he feels like he is right where he belongs.

"This is a match made in heaven. I feel like I'm right where I belong," said Jackson. "I've always been the type of player that this organization embodies, tough, physical, hard-nosed. I think this is the place for me.

"I watched the Steelers my whole life. I think everybody who's watched football of any nature has watched the Steelers, has been a Steelers fan at some point in their life or had a favorite player that played in this organization. So, just embodying that, just excited to just be a Pittsburgh Steeler and taking it one day at a time."

Jackson is fired up to put the pads on in the black and gold for the first time Tuesday, something that will let others see the type of player he really is.

"Super psyched about that," said Jackson. "It's been my main focus this offseason to make sure I feel good physically and mentally. I just can't wait to get out there. It's going to be exciting. Just to put the pads and get on the field, I'm excited."

Coach Mike Tomlin has liked what he has seen from Jackson even before the pads go one, loving the energy he brings.

"I like his energy, I like his spirit," said Tomlin. "He's a football lover. He's competitive. But we knew all that about him before he got here. That's why he's here. It's just confirming some of that."

See the best black and white photos from the first week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

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, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1 - 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.
Saturday, August 3 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, August 4 - 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.

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.

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

Opportunity knocks: Sunday's practice included rookie inside linebacker Payton Wilson's most extensive action with the first-team, five-defensive backs, two-inside linebackers "nickel" defense, and rookie offensive tackle Troy Fautanu getting more reps as the first-team right tackle than he had previously.

It was an eye-opening experience for both.

"I mean, it's humbling," Wilson offered. "You look in front of you, (outside linebacker) T.J. Watt. Beside me, (inside linebacker) Patrick Queen, who I think is one of the best if not the best linebacker in the game. To take knowledge from them, see how they prepare, see how they play in-game, it's really awesome.

"I just come in every single day and do exactly what I'm told, give 110 percent. At the end of the day coaches are going to do what they want. Whatever role they wanna hand me, I'm willing and able."

Fautanu characterized the practice as "an opportunity, and I feel like I made the most of it.

"I gotta clean up some things, can't false start, stuff like that, things I can control," he added.
"I'm hard on myself so things like that overshadow some of the (positive) things I did (Sunday afternoon). "Hopefully, I'll fix that."

Both are taking the next step in their indoctrination to the NFL in training camp.

"Everything's more advanced," Wilson said. "(On Sunday) I had great coverage and (quarterback) Justin Fields dropped a 'dime' in there and someone (tight end MyCole Pruitt) catches it one-handed. The level of guys that you're playing is unreal and if you're not near perfect on every play you're gonna get beat, that's just the mentality you have to have.
"The rhythm passing, the play-actions pass, even the O-line are so good at selling a play-action. It's just continuing to learn and grow."

-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta

See the best photos from the first week of the Steelers 2024 training camp

Sunday, July 28

Happy to be home again: The smile on Tyler Matakevich's face said it all when he was asked the simple question.

What does it mean to be back here?

"Oh, my gosh, I'm so excited," said a beaming Matakevich. "This is where I got drafted back in 2016. Just to have the opportunity to come back and play for Coach (Mike) Tomlin, it's a dream come true."

Matakevich, who was selected by the Steelers in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft, signed a one-year contract with the Steelers in mid-July. He spent his first four seasons in the NFL in Pittsburgh and the last four seasons with the Buffalo Bills.

Being back at training camp at Saint Vincent College, though, is right where he wants to be.

"Oh there was no hesitation," said Matakevich when he got the call to sign with the Steelers. "Just to have the opportunity to come play for Mike Tomlin, (special teams coordinator) Danny Smith and all these great coaches. There's nowhere else I'd rather be. It was honestly such an easy decision for me to come back here."

A lot of the faces have changed since Matakevich was last with the Steelers, with only a handful of the roster still left from his time with the team.

But the feeling is still the same.

"There's only a couple guys left here that I played with," said Matakevich. "So, a lot of new faces. I think there's only five guys left. And then just playing in the league, I know a lot of these guys, every year playing against them and stuff like that."

In eight seasons, Matakevich has appeared in 129 games, starting one. He has 47 career tackles, including 31 solo stops, four passes defensed and one interception.

He has made his impact mainly on special teams in his career, and it's been a significant impact, with 64 special teams tackles in his career.

In his last season with the Steelers in 2019, he was tied for the NFL lead with 16 special teams tackles, which was a career-high for him, with 14 of them solo stops.

Returning to be a part of a special teams unit under Smith is something he loves.

"It's how passionate he is," said Matakevich. "Everything he does, he puts you in the right places to be successful. That's such a good quality to have as a coach, to know personnel and stuff like that. By allowing you to be in a spot to be successful, it's only going to make the team successful. I think Danny does an unbelievable job with that."

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

Allen settling in: With Russell Wilson sidelined the first four days of training camp practices with a calf issue, not only has it meant more snaps at quarterback for Justin Fields, but it also has meant veteran Kyle Allen has gotten more work, as well.

For Allen, 28, those additional reps have been beneficial as he, like Wilson and Fields, also is learning a whole new offense and getting acclimated to the players around him.

"I feel like I've executed well," said Allen, acquired in the offseason via free agency. "I think there are things to clean up, and there's more comfortability in the offense, but I've felt confident in how I've been playing."

Allen drew praise from head coach Mike Tomlin earlier this week for his execution in practice and the six-year veteran led the second unit to three touchdowns in three opportunities Sunday in 'Seven Shots' to start practice.

The Steelers are Allen's fifth NFL team, and the veteran has completed 62.6 percent of his passes with 26 touchdowns and 21 interceptions in 30 career games, 19 of them starts.

He feels the team as a whole is starting to get a pretty good grasp on what new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is working to accomplish with the group.

"I think we're trying to create a good balance, and we're trying to figure out our identity," Allen said. "In the spring, we were trying to figure that out, and right now I think we have a better idea of who we are and what we want to be. We're really getting our base plays down of who we are as a team."

And when Wilson returns, possibly as soon as Tuesday when the Steelers are back on the field and in pads, the additional reps Fields and Allen received over the past few days might go away. But they'll still have them in the bank to fall back on.

"It's been good getting out there and getting more experience and getting into a rhythm in practice," Allen said. "Russ is good. He's always engaged. He hates not being out there. He's a good team player. He's old, so he's got a lot of knowledge. He's speaking up and being how he always is."

— Blog entry by Dale Lolley

A legend in the house: Legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson was at Steelers training camp on Sunday, watching practice and finally having the opportunity to meet Coach Mike Tomlin, after the two have had multiple phone conversations.

Robinson, who has attended games at Acrisure Stadium, has been a Steelers fan for a long time as his wife is from Pittsburgh and has always had a mutual admiration with Tomlin.

"I had a dream come true today because I had the chance to meet Mike Tomlin in-person," Robinson told NFL Network.

Game nights: After spending his first four seasons in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, the one thing linebacker Patrick Queen wants to do during training camp is get comfortable with his teammates and learn everybody.

And sometimes, that happens over a game of UNO.

But, be warned.

He brought his own game with him, and he doesn't like to lose.

"I love UNO," said Queen. "My family doesn't like to play me. They think I cheat."

Queen admitted to being a big 'draw four' fan of the game, but more than anything, it's about the bonding aspect right now.

"It's cool," said Queen. "You get to be around teammates all day. You can learn everybody, beat them in games like Connect 4 and UNO and stuff like that, get to know the coaches.

"You get to know the system and just be around football all day. Just getting to know everybody. I think that's the biggest thing."

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, July 28 – 1:55 p.m.
Monday, July 29 – no practice
Tuesday, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1 - 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.

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.

Saturday, July 27

Staying focused: Rookie tackle Troy Fautanu is quickly making the adjustment to training camp, and with just a few days under his belt can already see the progress he has made since the end of minicamp in mid-June.

"I feel great, honestly," said Fautanu. "I feel like these last few days have been really good. Just taking steps, making sure that I don't drop off from the last day of mandatory minicamp to day one on training camp. It didn't happen. So, I feel like I'm just taking steps day by day, just making sure I get better every day."

As the saying goes it takes a village to raise a child, and for Fautanu it takes help from Steelers veterans to raise a rookie. Fautanu is leaning on players like Isaac Seumalo, Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones for help along the way.

"I would say (I am leaning on) all the guys," said Fautanu. "But to pick out a couple, Dan, Isaac for sure. I'm kind of like Isaac's rookie, making sure he's taken care of if he needs anything. Just because I know any time I ask that guy a question, he's always there to answer it. Everyone in the room has been so helpful. Just making sure that I'm taken care of as well."

One thing Fautanu has made sure of is he is never losing focus. While he grew up a Steelers fan, he knows now that he is wearing the black and gold, he has to be a pro.

"I mean, it still happens in my head," said Fautanu. "I see some of the guys I grew up watching. Just kind of making sure that I'm being a professional and making sure I go about my business, and I don't bother anybody too much.

"But for sure, in my head I'm still the middle schooler or high schooler that that grew up loving the Steelers."

The best of the best: The Steelers Hall of Honor is the ultimate recognition for those who have made immeasurable contributions to the organization, whether it be on the field, or off the field.

On Saturday, the newest additions to the group were welcomed into the fold when the Hall of Honor Class of 2024 was announced during a ceremony at Saint Vincent College as a part of the Steelers Back Together Weekend celebration.

The Hall of Honor Class of 2024 includes four individuals who were part of Super Bowl teams for the Steelers, with three of them part of the same championship team. Linebacker Jason Gildon, nose tackle Casey Hampton, defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau and running back Willie Parker highlight a class that brought plenty of glory to the black and gold.

"We were excited to introduce the the 2024 Class of Hall of Honor. A great group of Steelers," said Steelers President Art Rooney II. "And, Coach LeBeau, unusual I would say for an assistant coach to go in, not sure how many times that'll happen, but he's just a remarkable person and just so loved by his players.

"Jason was here today, really stepping in at a time where we didn't know what we were getting in Jason. And for him to come in and set the sack record (at that point) was was great to see. And, of course, Casey Hampton, just so popular with his teammates and just the rock in the center of that line. I know a lot of people will be excited to see Casey going in. Willie, the Super Bowl record is great, but, just a great career, a solid performer and to see somebody come in undrafted like that and have that kind of success. And so it's exciting to see him going into the Hall of Honor now."

-->> Read More

Back together: NFL teams are celebrating 'Training Camp: Back Together Weekend' beginning today, a chance for fans across the league to watch their teams in action, and Steelers fans turned out at Saint Vincent College to watch the black and gold on Saturday and a large crowd is expected on Sunday.

Coach Mike Tomlin welcomed the fans to camp, speaking to them prior to practice, and then introduced former Steelers linebacker Jason Gildon, who is a part of the Steelers Hall of Honor Class of 2024, to the crowd.

"I just wanted to take a moment to welcome you back to football in 2024," said Tomlin. "I wanted to thank you for making this the very best training camp site in the NFL. We have a lot of new players and coaches and I have been telling them how great this environment is, and your presence today confirms it. We are going to have a great time today. We are going to work hard. We hope you guys have a great time today. We thank you for bringing energy to our work.

"And I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge we have a new class of Hall of Honor honorees this year for 2024. Some Pittsburgh Steelers legends, and we have one in the building today. I want you to join me in welcoming Jason Gildon and congratulating him on his induction into the Hall of Honor."

About Back Together Weekend:

NFL Network provides extensive coverage of "Training Camp: Back Together Weekend Presented by YouTube TV" Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28, and all 32 NFL training camps with daily editions of "Inside Training Camp" Monday, July 29 through Wednesday, Aug. 7.

For the fourth consecutive year, all 32 NFL teams will kick off Training Camp by holding practices with club-led fan events. This year's edition of "Training Camp: Back Together Weekend" will feature celebrations that will once again span two days – Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28 – with complete coverage across NFL Network and NFL+, as well as ABC and ESPN.

Beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Saturday, July 27 and continuing at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 28, NFL Network provides 16 hours of live "Training Camp: Back Together Weekend" coverage over the two days as teams across the league hit the field.

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo will be in Latrobe on Sunday covering the Steelers.

"Inside Training Camp" on NFL Network kicks off Monday, July 29 and provides daily coverage through Wednesday, Aug. 7. Coverage starts at noon ET July 29 – Aug. 2 and on Aug. 4, at 3 p.m. ET on Aug. 3, and at 2 p.m. ET Aug. 5-7. As teams report to camp and take the field, NFL Network is there to provide in-depth coverage and access, interviews with players and coaches, analysis from former players, head coaches and front office executives, and live reports from reporters stationed at training camp sites.

For NFL Network's "Inside Training Camp" coverage, hosts MJ Acosta-Ruiz, Patrick Claybon, Rhett Lewis, Chris Rose, Colleen Wolfe and Mike Yam are joined by analysts Brian Baldinger, Bucky Brooks, David Carr, Cynthia Frelund, Pep Hamilton, Daniel Jeremiah, Gerald McCoy, Scott Pioli, Michael Robinson and Marc Ross to provide analysis and interviews.

Also lending their voices throughout are NFL Media Insiders Mike Garafolo, Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, senior national columnist Judy Battista, chief national reporter Steve Wyche, and NFL Network reporters Taylor Bisciotti, Jeffri Chadiha, Bridget Condon, Stacey Dales, Omar Ruiz, Jane Slater, Sara Walsh and Cameron Wolfe providing the latest news reports from training camps around the league.

Editions of "The Insiders" air Wednesday, July 31 and Friday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. ET, and Monday, Aug. 5 through Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. ET on NFL Network, with Battista, Garafolo, Pelissero, Rapoport and a rotating list of NFL Network reporters providing the latest news from around the league.

Herbig the center of attention: Though he's played just 49 career regular season snaps at center, veteran Nate Herbig was installed as the Steelers' starter at that position when Mason Cole was released earlier in the offseason.

Even with the selection of center Zach Frazier in the second round of this year's draft, Herbig has continued to work with the starting unit throughout the offseason program and now into training camp. But even though his resume doesn't include a lot of center play, Herbig has plenty of experience there dating back to his days with the Eagles and then Jets before joining the Steelers last season.

"Even when I was younger with the Eagles, I was the backup center and my primary focus was on guard, I would take snaps every day," Herbig said Saturday. "I've been doing that throughout my career, wherever I've been. So, I feel very comfortable."

That level of comfort has allowed the veteran, now in his sixth season, to hold off a talented young player such as Frazier thus far.

He has an understanding of what it takes to play in the NFL and to be the player in the pivot on the offensive line. It's more than just snapping the football. Oftentimes, the center is responsible for making calls for the rest of the offensive line and making sure everyone is on the same page.

"I understand what comes with it," said Herbig, who has appeared in 61 career games, 30 of them starts. "I understand my responsibility to the offense, the offensive line, the team in general. I don't take that lightly. I'm going to do my best to make sure we're all on the same page."
That goal, regardless of who is on the line, is to be the best unit it can be. And Herbig said the Steelers are working to achieve that on a daily basis.

"We want to win badly," he said. "We want to be one of the best units in the NFL, if not the best. That's our goal. That's our mindset. We work like that every day. We expect nothing less."

The Steelers had made numerous additions to their line over the past two seasons.

Last year, Herbig and guard Isaac Seumalo were added in free agency, while the draft brought tackle Broderick Jones and swingman Spencer Anderson, who's capable of playing all five spots on the line.
This year's draft not only added Frazier in the second round, but offensive tackle Troy Fautanu and guard Mason McCormick in the first and fourth rounds, respectively.

"Super-talented," Herbig said of the young additions. "Even last year with Broderick and Spencer, super-talented guys. Broderick was really good last year. Obviously, these three they brought in are uber-talented. It's exciting to watch them grow. I love their work ethic."

And if it so happens that Frazier does beat him out for a starting spot at some point, Herbig is only concerned about doing what's best for the team.

In the meantime, he's going to keep working.

"Whatever they tell me to do, whatever position they tell me to play, I really only care about winning football games and trying to be a better version of myself," Herbig said. "I only care about the team. Wherever they tell me to play, I'm going to put my best foot forward."

— Blog entry by Dale Lolley

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

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, July 28 – 1:55 p.m.
Monday, July 29 – no practice
Tuesday, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1 - 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2 - 7 p.m. (Latrobe Memorial Stadium) - Tickets for Friday Night Lights are on sale now. For more information visit https://www.steelers.com/schedule/event-calendar/friday-night-lights/. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Latrobe Greater School District.

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

Friday, July 26

First on the field: It's only the second day of training camp, but linebacker Payton Wilson is already catching the attention of fans and media alike for his approach.

Wilson has been the first player on the field each day for practice, not to be labeled first, but simply because he has a routine he wants to go through and doesn't want to skimp on it. He has been joined by his inside linebackers coach Aaron Curry, working on things before others are even out of the locker room.

"It wasn't in my head that I want to be first," said Wilson. "I didn't want to come out here and, hey, I'm the first guy here. I have a routine that I do every single day. My warm-up takes about 20, 25 minutes, and I'm not going to cut that.

"Whatever time I need to be out here to do that. I have a routine that I live by and I'm going to do it. Whatever time I need to be here, I want to be here."

Wilson said it's a routine he developed while working with trainers back home in North Carolina.

"It's a long warm up, ankles, knees, shoulders," said Wilson. "Just all mobility so I don't go into practice cold. Everything's warmed up. Make sure I'm ready to go."

It appears to be working as Wilson is off to a fast start in just his first training camp.

"From OTAs to now, it's a world of difference," said Wilson of his grasp of the defense and how things are going. "In OTAs and minicamp, I wasn't able to be myself because I wasn't playing freely, because I didn't know the defense how I wanted to. Even yesterday and especially today, just how fast and freely I was able to move, credit Coach Curry, Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts for just leaning on me. The whole month we had off checking in, making sure I'm studying film, making sure if I have any questions that they got me.

"It's a little cheesy to say, but playing right beside two of the best linebackers in the game, Patrick Queen probably being one of the best if not the best, and then E-Rob being up there being in the league for 10 years. Just the knowledge and natural instincts that those guys have and the little information that they're able to give me, I'm just like a sponge just soaking it up."

Getting himself noticed: It doesn't matter where you start in the NFL, it's what you make of that start that is important.

And rookie defensive back Beanie Bishop Jr. is making the most of his beginning.

The Steelers signed Bishop as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft and the rookie from West Virginia hasn't disappointed.
Bishop has already been taking first team reps in training camp and just wants to keep moving forward.

"It's going pretty good," said Bishop. "Just taking it day-by-day. Second day here, getting a lot of reps. I'm just working and competing every day against my teammates."

Bishop played one season for the West Virginia Mountaineers in 2023, recording 67 tackles, 54 of them solo stops, and four interceptions while starting 13 games. He earned first team All-American honors (Walter Camp and FWAA) and second team All-American honors (Associated Press, Sporting News, AFCA). He was also selected All-Big 12 Conference first team.

Bishop led the nation last season with 24 passes defended and 20 pass breakups. Bishop ranked second in the FBS with 17 forced incompletions and tied for 19th with four interceptions.

Now he wants to make that impact in Pittsburgh.

"I feel that I had pretty good OTAs and minicamp and things like that," said Bishop. "I knew I was going to get some reps, this many reps, I wasn't really sure about.

"I feel that I can cover and I'm also a great tackler. I feel that those are abilities that you need to have.

"I know I can run with all of the guys in the league. It's just about winning at the line and playing to my leverage, playing to my help and things like that. The vets have made me very comfortable within the defense, making things easy for me so I can just go out there and play."

Tackle Troy Fautanu hasn't had much down time since he was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Steelers, and that includes the time between the team's minicamp and training camp.

Fautanu used the six-week break to continue to hone his craft, work on his skills, and get in as many reps as he could to be prepared for what is to come.

"Reps, that's the biggest thing for me, just getting reps against NFL caliber guys," said Fautanu. "Then going against guys like we have on the edges is going to help only make me better. You have elite talent on the edge, especially on this team with T.J. (Watt), Alex (Highsmith) and Nick (Herbig), and a bunch of those guys. I'm just ready to treat every day like a game day.

"That's the mindset I've come to camp with and just making sure that I'm getting better.

"I just wanted to hone my craft and just continuously get reps at whatever I need to work on. The difference between playing left and right is just switching up the footwork. And that may sound easier than it is, but it is difficult. I know it'll come with time, so I'm just ready to take on the challenge."

Fautanu, who grew up a Steelers fan, wants to hold up his end of the Steelers tradition and he knows a strong showing in training camp is a great starting point.

"I just need to be ready," said Fautanu. "It's going to be tough, like I've heard. Coach (Mike) Tomlin does a great job preparing us for the season. But that's going to come with tough days. So just making sure that I'm mentally prepared, more than anything. Physically, I know I'll be able to get through it, but just mentally knowing there's a light at the end of the tunnel in terms of those dog days you get in the middle of camp.

"In college, and it might be a lot different here, but when you get in the middle of camp and you're waking up on Day 16 making sure that you have the same energy you did on Day 1."

Fautanu has no doubt he will be ready to go from start to finish, just as he has no doubt he feels ready to compete at the NFL level.

"I am (ready)," said Fautanu. "I am 100%. I would say the biggest step that I did take this year, and last year of college, was just the mental aspect of treating every day like a pro. Just going about my business and taking care of everything that I need to do. Just making sure that I'm ready for whatever opportunity is thrown at me."

Switching it up: Training camp 2024 has taken on a different look for the Steelers, with morning practices during the week, a re-vamped run test, and the tight ends even seeing more passes in practice.

Tight end Pat Freiermuth is welcoming the changes.

"We're not in a routine," said Freiermuth. "We are trying to switch it up. We are doing everything we can to have success in the playoffs. And so whatever change is needed to get there, we are willing to do whatever we've got to do to get in the playoffs and win some games there.

"Whatever the change is, we are willing to do it."

One change was seen at the onset of practice in camp this year, with the tight ends getting more targets in offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's plan.

"It was very refreshing," said Freiermuth. "First day coming in, seeing the targets increase. It was great.

"I watched a lot (of Smith's film)," said Freiermuth. "When he first got hired, I watched Tennessee. Then over the summer I watched Tennessee and Atlanta, and we had our own film from OTAs. It's a great offense to be in."

While some things have changed this training camp, others haven't and that includes it being held at Saint Vincent College once again.

"It's awesome," said Freiermuth. "It's great to be back. It's cool to see all the fans out here at the early morning practice. It's cool to see going to breakfast fans already lined up. We've got the best fans in the world, and you can see it here. It's great to practice in front of the fans.

"Coach T (Mike Tomlin) said something really cool too. The reason why we go away is so we can get that informal time, playing games and just hanging out in each other's rooms and eating together, talking with guys you don't really know and building that relationship."

Taking it one percent at a time: On the outside, it might seem like an easy flip, going from left tackle to right tackle.

In reality, it's anything but.

Nonetheless, tackle Broderick Jones made it look seamless last year in his rookie season.

Jones came into the team's 2023 training camp battling for the starting left tackle spot, which is his natural position. After Dan Moore Jr. held on to the spot, Jones saw limited action early on, starting Week 5 on the left side against Baltimore when Moore was ruled out with a knee injury.

But it was later in the season, in Week 9 against the Tennessee Titans, that he took over at right tackle for Chukwuma Okorafor and remained at the spot the remainder of the year.

"I feel like I started at the right time," said Jones. "I feel like I needed a couple weeks to sit, watch, learn and listen and take everything in before I was just able to go out there. I feel like being able to sit down those first couple of weeks really helped me."

Now, heading into Year 2, Jones is ready for whatever is asked of him.

"I'm just coming out here every day trying to get one percent better," said Jones. "If you say left or right, I'm just trying to do my part when my name is called. I just want to be prepared.

"I feel like I'm a versatile player. I can play either side. I've been doing it my whole life. I practice each and every day, so I'm always getting reps for both sides because I never know. Coaches probably still don't know. We've just got to let time tell and continue to just get one percent better."

Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2024 season at Saint Vincent College

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.

Saturday, July 27 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, July 28 – 1:55 p.m.
Monday, July 29 – no practice
Tuesday, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1 - 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

Great Expectations: Head coach Mike Tomlin was as direct as possible in announcing what'll be anticipated from defensive tackle Keeanu Benton in his second season with the Steelers.

"Big things," Tomlin announced.

Tomlin then repeated the two-word assessment for emphasis.

"That makes two of us then," Benton responded. "I don't fold under pressure. I think pressure makes diamonds so I'm ready to go out there and work.

"I'm not gonna be young forever. I'm not gonna be a rookie forever. Eventually I gotta take that step. Why not do it now?"

Benton is a little lighter this season at 300 pounds, down 10 to 15 from where he ended last season, he estimated.

"I just wanna feel good and be able to be out here in (training) camp and run all day," he said. "I feel like I gain weight throughout the season so I'm just preparing for that."
Benton has also arrived at Saint Vincent College with a perspective he hadn't yet gleaned when he showed up a year ago as a rookie second-round pick from Wisconsin.

"The anxiety isn't really there," Benton confirmed. "It's just more excitement this year."

Benton said he hasn't yet been given any details regarding the role the Steelers intend him to play this season, but he's anticipating playing a significant amount of snaps.

"I haven't really gotten any specifics but I think it's going to be a good rotation," he said.
"Defensive line coach Karl Dunbar) likes to keep his D-linemen fresh."

-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta

Thursday, July 25

Taking the field: Quarterback Russell Wilson didn't practice on the first day of Steelers training camp after Coach Mike Tomlin said, 'He woke up today and his calf was tight.'

With Wilson sitting, that put the ball in quarterback Justin Fields' hands with the first team and he didn't disappoint.

The Steelers acquired Fields in a trade with the Chicago Bears this offseason as part of a completely new look at quarterback for the team.

Fields was selected by the Bears in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the 11th overall pick. In three seasons he has played in 40 games, starting 38 of them. He has completed 578 of 958 pass attempts (60.3%) for 6,674 yards, a seven-yard average per pass. Fields has thrown for 40 touchdowns in three seasons. Fields has also rushed for 2,220 yards on 356 carries and 14 touchdowns, including a career-long 67-yard touchdown run in 2022.

Fields said it felt good to be back on the field and he welcomed the reps.

"It was good to get back out there and knock the dust off a little bit," said Fields. "I felt like everybody's excited and anxious to get back on the field. It was pretty good, then tomorrow work again and get better.

"I was definitely trying to take advantage of each and every rep that I got today. I am just looking forward to getting better tomorrow."

While Wilson didn't practice, he did plenty of talking with Fields during the session.

"Any question that I have, I can always go to Russ asking for advice," said Fields. "He's going to give his knowledge. He's been in the league for a long time. Any advice he has for me, I'm always open and willing to take that."

Fields said he got a text on Thursday morning around 6 a.m., which he saw when he woke up at 6:30, letting him know he would be getting the reps.

"I found out right when I woke up this morning," said Fields. "Last night I was just looking over the plays, but this morning our quarterback coach texted me and said be ready to take some reps this morning. It's good to face some short-term adversity, some stuff that's not expected because we're going to face things in games that are unexpected. It's about how we react to those situations and how we adjust."

The one thing Fields said he didn't do was change his approach to practice as he goes into every practice with the same mentality.

"I just tried to do my job for my teammates, but I'm not really changing anything," said Fields. "I try to come out here the same guy every day. I feel like it was all right. There's always room for improvement. I got some good reps in for sure."

Focused on being the best: Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is in the final season of his contract, looking to do an extension to stay with the Steelers.

But he isn't letting talk of the extension getting in the way of him focusing on football.

"I'm just going to focus on being the best player I can be and control what I control and being locked into this team," said Heyward. "I'll keep saying it. This team needs my leadership, my production, and I look forward to doing it.

"I just like being out here with the guys, being out here with a focus on trying to get better. I ask the dumbest questions in the room, but it's more to just remind myself and then educate others."

Heyward said he wants to remain in the black and gold until the end of his career, but he also knows it's a business.

"It's my goal," said Heyward. "We'll see what happens. I want to be here."

Chip on their shoulder: Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. said the defense definitely has a chip on their shoulder as training camp is underway, and it will be there until they reach their ultimate goal.

"The goal is always to win the Lombardi and hold that up at the end of the year," said Porter. "We didn't get to do that last year, so we're trying again this year. That's always the main goal."

Porter feels the Steelers have the pieces in place on defense to get the job done, it's now just a matter of putting it all together.

"I believe we're going to be pretty good," said Porter. "OTAs, everything, we have been together and now the first day in training camp was pretty smooth. We got to keep growing and building as a unit, as a team."

Porter likes the new additions the team made to the secondary this offseason and said that is a key part of the defense building and growing.

"We definitely got a lot of new faces from last year to this year," said Porter. "And coach said the main thing of coming out here is to bond as a team and as a unit. I feel like that's what we're going to do for this next month.

"We got some new pieces, and it's always cool to see where we're going to put them. I'm just excited with the new players we got. They came here ready to work, and let's do it."

First in line: Steelers fans couldn't hide their excitement for the first day of training camp, arriving well before sunrise to be the first fans on hand.

Erik Brown and his son, Jonah, drove from Queens, New York on Wednesday and headed straight for the parking lot line, after a stop for some snacks at a local store where they ran into a few players.

"We figured we might as well be first," said Brown. "We were so lucky. Last night we stopped at a local store and saw Joey Porter Jr. and Troy Fautanu.

"We have been coming here a few years. This is the first time we were first in line. We are really excited.

"It's Super Bowl or bust this year."

They weren't alone in line. Other early risers were the Scialabea family from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, who have made Steelers training camp a family tradition.

"We just wanted to get here and get our spot," said Jeff Scialabea. "We have done this every other year for the last few years.

"We enjoy it, getting to see the players, getting to see practice. We are just excited. We wanted to get a good spot to see the players on the hill."

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.

Friday, July 26 – 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, July 27 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, July 28 – 1:55 p.m.
Monday, July 29 – no practice
Tuesday, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 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

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.

Wednesday, July 24

Taking it to the next level: Linebacker T.J. Watt joked that going into his eighth season that he brought less to training camp than he ever has, knowing exactly what he needs and doesn't need.

That doesn't mean he isn't excited about being back at Saint Vincent College.

"It feels good to be back," said Watt. "Every year, I mean this is year eight, it's crazy how fast it goes. I am excited more than ever this year to be back here. I always love the drive into Latrobe, and it means it's a great time."

Watt, like Highsmith, is encouraged about what the defense can bring this season, especially with some of the offseason moves the team has made.

"We acquired some talent obviously in the draft and free agency and to see another year from the younger guys that are going to continue to get better and grow in the system," said Watt. "The more that we're able to grow together, especially on the defensive side, the better we are going to be."

Watt said all of the work the team did in the offseason was strong and productive, but now is when it really matters, especially when the team puts on the pads on Tuesday for the first time.

"It's all about when the pads come on," said Watt. "You guys all know that at this point. But I'm just excited to continue to grow. The defense needs continuity on and off the field. So that's what being here in these dorm rooms is all about."

One player who is new to the defense this season that will bring plenty of energy and excitement is linebacker Patrick Queen, the free agent who spent the last four seasons with the Ravens.

"(He is) fast, very fast, quick," said Watt. "Just to be able to have speed like that on the defensive side of the ball, sideline to sideline as an inside linebacker, is a huge asset. And then to be able to have a guy who can wear the green dot and be really well in communication, that's what we're here for."

Watt sees the potential the team has on defense and knows they can be an elite unit. It's just taking that next step.

"We have to stop the run, get after the quarterback. Take the ball away," said Watt. "All the things that seem so common and easy, aren't easy at this level. And that's why it's all about every man doing their job, not trying to do too much, basic stuff. But it's very hard to do week in and week out."

Steelers players arrive at Saint Vincent College ready to start the 2024 training camp

Staying focused: Running back Najee Harris spoke to the media on Wednesday, acknowledging he was initially disappointed the team didn't pick up his fifth-year option but it's nothing that will impact him this season or hold him back from being his best.

"You just got to keep on pushing and coming out here and doing what's best for the team," said Harris. "Having a good year is what's most important right now."

Harris said working with new quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields this offseason has been great and he is looking forward to more of the same in training camp.

"Russ and Justin, them coming into this team this offseason and that being probably one of our biggest pick-ups," said Harris. "Russ, obviously his leadership and him being at winning programs, him winning a Super Bowl. His knowledge of the game is what you need at that position and experience and things like that.

"Justin obviously is a really talented player. Me and him coming the same year out of college, so I have a good relationship with him. These guys are just leaders, good leaders on this team. I'm excited for them. Excited for everybody, the year that we're going to have."

Liking the looks of things: Linebacker Alex Highsmith checked into camp and is now ready to get right to work with a defense he has a lot of confidence in.

"I always enjoy coming back every year, and so I was super excited for this year to get started," said Highsmith. "We've got a lot of new guys, a lot of new faces. I just think it's going to bring a lot of excitement. I know the fans are going to be excited for tomorrow, for day one. I'm excited as well to get started."

What gives Highsmith confidence is the group of players the defense has returning, along with free agent additions signed in the offseason and draft picks.

"We've got a lot of capable guys, a lot of veteran guys, and a lot of new faces as well," said Highsmith. "There's a lot of guys who really bought into this process. We saw that in OTAs. There were a lot of guys in the building.

"We had a good offseason, so just looking forward to seeing how we progress and get better during camp."

Highsmith knows the defense needs to and can improve from last year and he is just excited to see it happen.

"It's just always wanting to get better," said Highsmith. "We have different additions this year. We're going to be even better defensively. It's just staying healthy and being consistent. We know that we can take the ball away more than we did last year and continue to be better in the run game and different areas. It's just always looking for ways to improve."

Back at it: For rookie Troy Fautanu the first day of training camp at Saint Vincent College is like the first day of school, with butterflies in his stomach as he drove from Pittsburgh and an energy for what is ahead.

"I've been counting down the days to get back," said Fautanu. "The month-long break was a lot longer for me because in college, they only give us a week. So, I felt like I was kind of just sitting around, if I wasn't working out. I'm excited to be here and ready to go.

"I was at my apartment earlier today and that hour long drive here, I had butterflies in my stomach. I was nervous. It felt like the first day of school for me.

"I'm just ready to go, man. I've been waiting for this moment and waiting for this opportunity, and I'm going to treat it like a game once again, just every single day getting better."

Fautanu said he didn't know what to expect when he checked into his dorm room, but what he saw exceeded his expectations.

"It was cool. It was a lot bigger than I thought," said Fautanu of his room. "I thought that we were going to have bunk beds. But I got my own room, so that's pretty cool. I thought they were going to give me that rookie treatment, but they kind of let me off easy.

"I've heard a lot of things about training camp. I'm not sure how similar it is to fall camp back in college, but I've heard a lot of good things about what we do here in Latrobe and how tough it's going to be and how ready it is going to make us for the season."

Now that he is settled in, the focus is strictly on football, and he couldn't be happier.

"I just treat every day like it's a game day," said Fautanu. "Treating every rep the same way. Just making sure I approach every day in a way to get better and just focusing on that. Whatever happens after that, I'll let the coaches deal with that."

Best dressed: Linebacker Elandon Roberts showed up to came ready for work. Roberts wore overalls, a cowboy hat and boots. As he said, 'I am from Texas and I came ready to work.'

TVStory_Elandon_Roberts_Arrival_1
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Elandon Roberts (50) arrives at Saint Vincent College for the 2024 Steelers training camp on on Wednesday July 24, 2024 in Latrobe, PA. (Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Ready to go: The Steelers arrive at training camp today, and we will have all of the latest news featured in the camp blog throughout the next few weeks.

From today's check-in to practices and off-the-field happenings, you will find it all here.

Check back throughout camp for updates on a regular basis.

Here We Go.

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, July 25 – 10:30 a.m.
Friday, July 26 – 10:30 a.m.
Saturday, July 27 - 1:55 p.m.
Sunday, July 28 – 1:55 p.m.
Monday, July 29 – no practice
Tuesday, July 30 – 10:30 a.m. – first day in pads
Wednesday, July 31 – 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

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