Most rookies would be happy with their first NFL game resulting in two tackles and a fumble recovery, but number one pick Jarvis Jones expects more.
Jones, who recovered a fumble in the second quarter against the Giants on Saturday night, said he still has a lot to work on as the preseason continues.
"I ran to the ball, hustled and had fun," said Jones. "I have a lot to improve on. I've got to better my technique, recognize plays much faster. There are things I need to improve on, things I did okay with."
That technique is something he continually referred to when talking about his game performance, making it a point of focus in practice.
"I felt like I didn't play as well as I could have," said the rookie linebacker. "I didn't use my technique the way I should have. I didn't use great technique on a lot of plays. I went with the flow. I didn't change my technique.
"I just have to continue to get better and maximize opportunities."
One thing that wasn't lacking was opportunities. Jones got some work with the first-team defense, but stayed on the field after they called it a night early on. While gaining experience throughout the entire game was invaluable, it was the time with the first-team defense that was most beneficial.
"They talk a lot more than the other guys because they understand where they need to be and where we need to be to make plays to get off the field," said Jones. "As far as students of the game they are way past us. With the other guys we are learning it all together.
"They are way past where I am as far as understanding this defense and the game of football. I just have to continue to work on my technique, craft and being a student of the game. Being out there with those guys, you have to play up to their potential. That's what gives me energy. It brings intensity to the game of football."
He knows he isn't where players like LaMarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons and Larry Foote are at this point, but he understands what it's going to take to get to that level and combined with his talent, it's a good start.
"There is no margin of error," said Jones. "When you are out there you have to bring it. You have to be on point. You have to know what you are doing. It you don't, it shows up on tape."
The Steelers resume practice at St. Vincent College on Wednesday, Aug. 14 with an evening practice at 5:25 p.m. Campus and the UPMC Steelers Experience will open at 2 p.m. The Steelers will resume their normal practice time on Thursday, Aug. 15 with a 2:55 practice.
