LATROBE, Pa. - With temperatures reaching the 90 degree mark earlier this week, and humidity making matters even worse, most people in Pittsburgh were doing their best to stay cool, whether it was in the comfort of an air conditioned building or at local swimming pools. Keeping cool was the number one goal.
That wasn't the case for a handful of Steelers' players though, who used the day just like they have used many this offseason. They used it to prepare for training camp and the 2016 season and didn't mind one bit that they were sweating bullets while running on their own, making sure they are in tip-top shape.
"We were gearing up," said defensive end Cameron Heyward. "I don't think there was any time to relax. We have had a long offseason. Now we are lathering up and getting charged up for a great camp."
That preparation will pay dividends today as the Steelers begin training camp and hit the field for their annual conditioning test at Saint Vincent College, something that quickly lets you know if you are in football shape or not.
The group of players, which was led by Heyward's guidance, included his fellow defensive linemen Stephon Tuitt, Vince Williams, and Caushaud Lyons, among others.
"It's not just about being ready for the conditioning," said Heyward. "If you are ready for the conditioning test, you are ready to play football. We did it so you don't get tired in the conditioning test and you are ready for the next day."
McCullers, the third-year tackle out of Tennessee, is looking to have a breakout season this year and wanted to come into camp as prepared as possible.
"I am just trying to get right for the season," said McCullers. "It's a big season ahead. The last few days we wanted to get ready and be set for the conditioning test."
The results will show today, but despite the sweat dripping off of them, they looked like a group ready to go.
"You have to be mentally and physically prepared," said McCullers. "It's a big thing to get used to the heat. We were working on that and a lot more."
