Ben wants reps: It's a preseason game, but for Ben Roethlisberger, it doesn't matter.
He wants to play.
Roethlisberger, who is entering his 18th season, will start against the Detroit Lions on Saturday night at Heinz Field, his first action of the preseason.
And he said it's important that he plays, especially with new offensive coordinator Matt Canada and quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan.
"We have a new system," said Roethlisberger. "There's a new coach to player communication in terms of a new guy. The offense is different. He's up in the box as compared to on the field. There is a lot of newness. I think it's prudent to get as much time as I can under those circumstances."
Coach Mike Tomlin didn't give any indication as to how much time Roethlisberger would see during his weekly press conference on Thursday, but Roethlisberger indicated it will be how he feels.
"I would love to get as many reps as I can," said Roethlisberger. "It's been how many months since I've actually stepped on the football field to take a hit? I know it's preseason, but still just meaningful reps. With the newness of it I'd definitely like to get as much as I can.
"I guess it depends on how we're doing, how it feels. I really wanted to try and play last week because it was on the road and that would have been our first opportunity to play on the road and the situation, with circumstances like crowd noise and things like that before we go into a very hostile environment in week one. But Coach, I couldn't talk him into it."
Roethlisberger said one of the things he likes most about the changes in Canada's offense is that it's new, it's different, and he has spent a lot of time studying it.
"The challenge of newness," said Roethlisberger. "I spent a lot of time at home, going over it, reading it, watching film. I was telling my wife the other night that I think maybe it's even better that there's some new stuff because it almost refocuses you in a way. If this was still the same stuff, I would probably go home and be like okay I'll watch the film and be ready to move on. But last night I watched the film, and I went back over everything again to refresh my mind. I think because it's different. I want to make sure that I'm not the reason that we struggle.
"Some of the new concepts I'll have it and I'll go home and I'll look at it and I'm like wait, what is this guy…if you think about it on every pass play for instance, I have to know what five guys are doing. It's not just one guy or just what I'm doing. So, I have to know who the hot is and what each specific guy is doing so there'll be times that I know what maybe three of them are doing and will be like, 'Wait, what's this guy doing again.' I just have to just try and refresh in my mind."
Roethlisberger got extra reps in practice throughout this week to prepare for Saturday night, nixing his normal day off just to get the extra reps.
"I asked Coach if I could take as many reps as I could this week just because it's been a while, and I wanted to kind of simulate a game week," said Roethlisberger. "Obviously, Wednesdays I'll have off typically, but I just want to get as many reps as I could this week."
With training camp at Heinz Field coming to an end, Roethlisberger said that he is feeling great still and ready to go.
"I feel great," said Roethlisberger. "My arm feels really fresh and feels good and feels kind of back to normal."
Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2021 season at Heinz Field
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Trai Turner (51) and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Jordan Berry (4) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Pressley Harvin III (6) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle John Leglue (77) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Marcus Baugh (89) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Lamont Wade (24) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34), Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Marcus Baugh (89) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) and Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Quincy Roche (48) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97), Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Wednesday, August 18
What he wants: There has been a lot of talk lately about what receiver James Washington wants.
And on Wednesday, he made it clear.
He just wants to help his team win.
"I just want to compete and help the team win," said Washington. "It gives me that drive to want to get out there and put my hand in the pile and just help the team to victory.
"Continue to show my strength and improve my weaknesses. Just keeping it on their minds that this is what I am good at and show I am trying to improve in other areas as well."
Washington's name was in the news recently when reports surfaced that he asked for a trade. He was asked about the rumor and chose to keep it private.
"That's a little private conversation," said Washington. "As far as me being happy in Pittsburgh, I love it here. Who wouldn't be happy playing football as their job? I come to work every day with a smile on my face. I'm eager to be here with my guys, joking around and laughing around, playing the sport that I love and continuing to play the sport that I love and just enjoying life."
Washington had 30 receptions for 392 yards and five touchdowns in 2020, after catching 44 passes for 735 yards and three touchdowns in 2019. He saw more work in practice on Wednesday with Chase Claypool not working because of an injury and is making the most of it.
"With Chase down, I worked with the ones a little bit more," Washington said. "All I can do is keep capitalizing and make the most of every rep when I'm in there.
"I'm just trying to do what I can. I want to show people that I can be available and make a play that you want me to make. Just do what I need to do.
"Just come to work every day and being available. Just doing what got me to this point so far. That's all I can do. I can't control what other people do. Just control what I can do."
Staying focused: Cody White knows if he wants to break the 53-man roster, he has to stand out.
And the first-year wide receiver has been doing that in many ways. Including many times being the first player on on the field, and the last player off the field on a regular basis. White is normally out there with Lou Balde, an equipment assistant, catching passes and getting extra work in.
"I am really just focused on myself," said White. "I am trying to be the best receiver I can be. I come out early and try to get some catches with my guy Lou, who is out there every day. After practice I try to do the same thing. Just make sure my hands are the best that they can be."
White has been working with the first-team in practice, getting valuable reps that can do nothing but add to his case to break into a crowded wide receiver group. He is also getting plenty of work on special teams, another way to earn a spot when things get crowded.
"It's been good being able to get some first team reps, being able to know all of the positions and be able to play everywhere on the offense," said White. "Also, I have been playing all four core special teams, trying to get a spot any way I can.
"I just try to come in every day and give it my all. Hopefully things work out my way. Just trying to make the 53 and go from there. Just keep working every day, bringing my all and going 110% every day."
White spent the majority of the 2020 season on the Steelers practice squad. While he didn't see any game action, he learned on a daily basis going up against the Steelers secondary.
"Going against Joe Haden, Steve Nelson, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Terrell Edmunds, getting me better every day," said White. "Going against the top guys in the league I feel like it helped me."
What else has helped him is his background in football. His father, Sheldon White, played in the NFL for six years and worked for the Detroit Lions in the front office for 19 years. He went on to be the executive director of player personnel and recruiting for Michigan State and is now a college scout for the Washington Football Team.
"I have around the game since I was about five years old, on the sideline with him, going to his office," said White. "Football has always been a part of my life. I've always felt like he has given me tips because he played in the league. Being able to have that in my family and be around that growing up I feel like it helps me a lot."
He said it: Running back Kalen Ballage
"This is by far the best organization I have been a part of. It's a lot more professional. At the same time, it's not so professional that they don't care about the person. It's much closer here. It feels much more like a family from the top down. Everybody speaks to you. Everybody says hi. What can I do for you? Everybody has this 'serve' mentality. You service each other and I think that is the reason this organization has had success."
Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2021 season at Heinz Field
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Shakur Brown (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Coach Eddie Faulkner trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
A general view at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13), Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Kendrick Green (53) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamar Watson (50) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Buddy Johnson (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
ps18\trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95), Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9) and Pittsburgh Steelers punter Pressley Harvin III (6) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamar Watson (50) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Coach Eddie Faulkner and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Trai Turner (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center J.C. Hassenauer (60) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Rashaad Coward (79) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Tuesday, August 17
In season prep: The Steelers are wrapping up their Heinz Field portion of training camp this week, with just one more practice open to the public on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
While they are in training camp mode still, Coach Mike Tomlin had the team work in an in-season mode on Tuesday, simulating what a normal in-season Wednesday would be like as they prepare to take on the Detroit Lions at Heinz Field on Saturday night.
"We went through the structure of a normal in-season Wednesday in terms of laying foundational things relative to this week's opponent," said Tomlin. "Talking about high volume stuff. Our utilization of personnel, our work groups and things of that nature, how we intend to divide the labor up. A dry run if you will, not in totality by any stretch.
"It's been a good process for us. We'll continue to push forward and introduce them to what a week's prep is like. It's important they find their rhythm within that. The things they do to take care of their body. The things they do to prepare for each day in anticipation of the materials they're going to receive. There's a lot of irons in the fire this week. We're excited about the work. Hopefully it culminates in quality performance at the end of it. That's the intentions."
He said it: Tomlin on if Kendrick Green is currently the starting center:
"You can surmise that, but there will be no bold announcements."
Time change: The Steelers have changed their training camp practice times for Wednesday, Aug. 18, the final practices open to the public at Heinz Field.
Practice will now begin at 1:30 p.m.
Fans must have a ticket to attend practice, but tickets are free and can be obtained by visiting the Steelers Training Camp page, where you will find all camp details to help with your visit.
Take a closer look at the best photos of wide receivers from the 2021 Steelers Camp
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Teaming up: The Steelers, Heinz Field Management and Giant Eagle Pharmacy will offer a free COVID-19 vaccination clinic for those attending Saturday night's preseason game versus the Detroit Lions. The clinic will be held pregame, from 5-7:30 p.m., on the Main Concourse West and Ford Fan Zone Plaza East.
Fans who want to receive a vaccine are asked to bring Photo ID and medical insurace card.
More information is available here.
Monday, August 16
A different view: Eddie Faulkner is no different than the rest of us.
The Steelers running backs coach has been enjoying watching what first-round pick Najee Harris can do so far in training camp and the preseason, but he has to do one thing differently than those in the stands at Heinz Field.
He can't watch him as a fan.
"The more reps he gets, the better he gets," said Faulkner. "When you have a talent like that as a coach, you want to get most out of him. You put the pressure on yourself to make sure he knows what he's doing. Then you have to make sure you're not catching yourself watching like a fan, too, because there are things that happen out there and you're like, 'Man, did you just see that?'"
Faulkner prepares Harris and all his running backs with some of the most imaginative drills he can find, always mixing it up and keeping things fresh, so they can learn and grow continually. He also spends time with him in the classroom, and Harris has been a quick study.
"I always try to come up with something to coach him up on, some detail so we can continue to push that train down the track and get him as good as he can be by game one," said Faulkner. "He's got an appetite for everything that is football related. It's not like you even have to wind him up. He is special in that regard."
Time change: The Steelers have changed their training camp practice times for both Tuesday, Aug. 17 and Wednesday, Aug. 18, the final two practices open to the public at Heinz Field.
Practice will now begin at 1:30 p.m. each day.
Fans must have a ticket to attend practice, but tickets are free and can be obtained by visiting the Steelers Training Camp page, where you will find all camp details to help with your visit.
Take a closer look at the best photos of running backs from the 2021 Steelers Camp
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, July 27, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Andrew Stein / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Buddy Johnson (51) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Calvin Bundage (33) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26), Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Looking out for No. 1: Last year the Steelers defense finished ranked No. 1 in the AFC in overall defense and No. 1 against the pass, while ranking No. 3 overall in total defense in the NFL, and No. 3 against the pass in the league.
Those are rankings they can take great pride in, but the bottom line is, it's not enough for them.
"We are striving every day to be the No. 1 defense," said safety Terrell Edmunds. "I know last year we were up in the top ranks. But this year we want to be No. 1.
"We don't want to take anything less than that. We are going to come out here every day and work like we are the No. 1 defense and come out and play games like that."
Edmunds, who is coming off and offseason shoulder injury, plans on giving everything he has to ensure the goal is met.
"I felt like last year I took a big step," said Edmunds. "This coming year take another step. Just keep on constantly going in the right direction, making the plays that are necessary.
"Just keep on growing, keep on being a great player. Put it all out on the field this year. At the end of the day, I am going to go out and give it everything I've got for this team."
Take a closer look at the best photos of quarterbacks from the 2021 Steelers Camp
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterback Coach Mike Sullivan trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Monday, Aug. 2, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Friday, July 30, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Thursday, July 29, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Wednesday, July 28, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Sunday, August 15
Taking the field: Linebacker Joe Schobert got his first taste of Steelers football on Sunday, practicing for the first time since he was traded from the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a sixth-round pick.
Schobert worked with the first team defense in his first practice, something he said was a huge benefit.
"They threw me on the field playing with the ones today, which is good because all those guys know their communication and they can help me if I've got questions out in the field pre-snap," said Schobert after practice. "It's just jumping both feet right in. A lot of meetings yesterday and today to get the basic installs written down and put into my memory bank and just have got to get out here and start getting reps."
Schobert already has benefited from input from Devin Bush and Robert Spillane, two players he spent a lot of time talking to on the field on Sunday.
"Spillane, Devin, great, great assets in walkthrough and on the field," said Schobert. "They were able to vocally like set all the calls and then I was able to just kind of focus in on my job today and not have to worry about doing too much communication except for what was immediately necessary for me."
Schobert said he expects to be ready to run the basic defense 'pretty confidently' by the time the Steelers play the Detroit Lions on Saturday at Heinz Field in their third preseason game and then continue to learn as time goes on. He also said the expectation is he will be the signal caller for the defense.
"That's what they've got me at now, just learning the dime linebacker and the mack backer and okie personnel," said Schobert. "Just getting that stuff underway and once the season starts getting the green dot on the helmet, getting the calls from the coaches. That was the plan."
Schobert first learned of the trade around 6 p.m. on Friday night after the Jaguars held a team meeting and their General Manager Trent Baalke told him he wanted to see him in his office.
"It's never a good thing when the general manager asks that, but I found out I think before pretty much anything. I hear about people finding out on Twitter all the time," said Schobert. "They were able to tell me and get me notified before stuff like that happened. I wasn't sad but, it's kind of stressful especially during the middle of training camp because you've got a wife and kid, dog, house down in Jacksonville and going to have to figure out logistics of moving them up. A little stressful, little shock to the system.
"I think it came out of the blue from my perspective. There were no warning signs or no predetermined stuff. I was talking to defensive coaches right after I talked to the general manager and they were pretty shocked about it. So, I think it's kind of something that just came out of the blue and just happened."
He Said It: Joe Schobert on the Steelers:
'It's a first class organization. Everybody's been here a long time. People know what the standard is. It's understood in meetings and practice.'
Take a look at the Steelers training and preparing for the 2021 season at Heinz Field
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54), Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Brandon Walton (62) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88), Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34), Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20), Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Marcus Baugh (89) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Lafayette Pitts (30) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center J.C. Hassenauer (60) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Chaz Green (74) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Pete Guerriero (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Tony Brooks-James (40) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Lafayette Pitts (30) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Buddy Johnson (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Joe Haeg (71) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Kevin Dotson (69) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) and Pittsburgh Steelers Coaching Assistant Denzel Martin train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Rashaad Coward (79) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Joe Haeg (71) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Trai Turner (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. (65) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers guard Trai Turner (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center J.C. Hassenauer (60) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamar Watson (50) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Buddy Johnson (51) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Joe Schobert (45) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Calvin Bundage (33) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Melvin Ingram III (8) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) trains at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21), Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28), Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Shakur Brown (29) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) train at Heinz Field during the 2021 Steelers Camp, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Saturday, August 14
Almost 'Scho' time: Newly acquired linebacker Joe Schobert will take the field for his first practice in black and gold on Sunday. Schobert came to the Steelers via a trade on Saturday and was at practice at Heinz Field, but was just a spectator upon his arrival, watching alongside defensive coordinator Keith Butler.
Sunday, though, he will take the field, wearing his new number, No. 45.
"Joe will be practicing tomorrow," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "We're excited about having him. Productivity when I think of Joe. He needs no endorsement from me. We're familiar with him. Former AFC North guy. He has been highly productive in every circumstance he has been in. He is a sideline-to-sideline tackler. He is good in coverage. He has coverage production in terms of interceptions. He has sack production. He plays a well-rounded game. We are excited about infusing him into what we do."
Roster move: The team waived linebacker Tegray Scales. The move was needed after the trade for Joe Schobert.
Smiles everywhere: The Steelers hosted their annual Women's Training Camp on Saturday, a combination of events that took place at Heinz Field and North Hills High School.
The ladies went through football drills in the morning at the high school, run by Charlie Batch, Chris Hoke, Louis Lipps, Arthur Moats and Shaun Suisham, and then headed to Heinz Field where they heard from Craig Wolfley, before taking part in a Q & A with the former Steelers offensive lineman.
"Talking to the ladies is great because they are hard-core enthusiasts," said Wolfley. "They are great Steelers fans. They have an appreciation for the game. The Steelers have one of the highest followings among female fans across the NFL. It shows at events like this.
"They have a knowledge of the game, an understanding of the game. Their smiles abound. You can tell they are enjoying the company of each other."
The ladies came from all over, decked out in every kind of Steelers attire imaginable, and enjoyed an afternoon of watching the team practice.
"It's definitely something different coming to Heinz Field for this," said Susan Parkes, who came from New Jersey and is accustomed to attending the event at Saint Vincent College in the past. "We got to see all of the former players. They were all great. They were all real personable, a lot of fun, had us doing the drills they used to do.
"The Steelers are a class organization. I am so happy to be here. I am just happy they did it this year."
Trade alert: The Steelers bolstered their defense, agreeing to a trade for inside linebacker Joe Schobert with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Steelers are giving the Jaguars their sixth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft in exchange.
Schobert, who is entering his sixth NFL season, has recorded 535 tackles, 326 solo stops, 26 quarterback hits, 21 tackles for a loss, 11 sacks, 24 pass defenses and nine interceptions.
More here -->> Schobert acquired via trade
