The Steelers are holding their mandatory veteran minicamp at Heinz Field on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of this week.
Follow along all week in our blog for all of the latest news from the players and coaches as they wrapup the offseason program.
Thursday, June 17
Job done, results pending
The three weeks of OTAs and the three days of Mandatory Veteran Minicamp that concluded today were worthwhile endeavors, Mike Tomlin suspects.
But the Steelers' head coach at the same time understands it's still far too early to know for certain.
"We kind of measure these processes on performance, and so it's 'stay tuned,'" Tomlin concluded today at Heinz Field. "Hopefully, we're setting guys up and putting them in position to have the type of impact that we need them to have and they desire to have. But I never really kind of measure or evaluate this component of the calendar until I assess 2021, so stay tuned.
"I do take good notes. I do like some of the things we were able to get done. But largely, I'll reserve any judgement until I look at the journey."
A stated goal since the conclusion of last season has been to make the offense more physical.
Although no hitting was done over the last month, Tomlin emerged confident significant steps had been taken in that direction.
"With everything that we do we have an opportunity to build and develop our personality, not only through physical labor but mental approach," Tomlin said. "Although we're not carrying pads, yes, we are laying the foundation for that agenda."
COVID-19 protocols remain a much-discussed subject in a rapidly changing NFL landscape.
But that hasn't altered the Steelers' intended approach, or what Tomlin thinks of the latest adaptations to NFL policy.
"I really don't have any thoughts," he said. "Thoughts are a waste of time for me. I'm gonna do like we've always done and that's adhere to the protocol to the letter.
"Our team is going to have the same mentality. We're not going to allow it to become a distraction or a discussion. It simply is what it is and we'll deal with it."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
There's only one way to rock
The offensive linemen may not have hit anyone yet but if anything has been made clear through OTAs and Mandatory Veteran Minicamp, it's the mandate to do so with physicality and aggression once the pads eventually come on.
New offensive line coach Adrian Klemm will accept nothing less.
"You can't stray away from it," Klemm said. "You set the tone for what it's going to be and you create an environment in a room, carry that out to the field. You're demanding of it every, single day.
"It's not that we're trying to find ourselves; this is who we're gonna be. If you're gonna live in this world that's how we're gonna live. If you can't do it, you'll be at home or you'll be on the sideline with a hat on. It's not a democracy in our room; this is what it is."
The demeanor and personality Klemm is after have been much-discussed over the last month.
Implementation is yet to come, but the Steelers have emerged from their offseason program headed in the right direction individually and collectively.
"It's not about talking about it every day," Klemm said. "It's about (new offensive coordinator) Matt (Canada) designing plays that put us in situations that we can be physical. It's about making it so there's not that need for a ton of communication and plays where guys have to do a lot of reading and thinking. It's running and taking advantage of their natural athleticism and allowing them to be physical. Not overcomplicating things, simplifying things where we can so they can be as physical as possible.
"The majority of our guys already have it in them. Once you create that culture, you just feed off of it and you grow. We're nowhere near where we need to be but there's been some gains made in that direction and it's encouraging and I'm excited about it."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
The Steelers participate in day 3 of the 2021 minicamp at Heinz Field
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Pressley Harvin III (6) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9) and Pittsburgh Steelers punter Pressley Harvin III (6) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Jordan Berry (4) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Jordan Berry (4) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Pressley Harvin III (6) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jarvis Miller (45) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Abdullah Anderson (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Lamont Wade (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Tight End Coach Alfredo Roberts and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) following practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Abdullah Anderson (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Dax Raymond (49), Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Jarron Jones (74) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5), Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11), Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback DeMarkus Acy (30) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Dax Raymond (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Brandon Walton (62) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Calvin Taylor (67) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Kendrick Green (53) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Anthony Coyle (68) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27), Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Brandon Walton (62) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Dax Raymond (49) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Thursday June 17, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Great expectations at tight end
Veteran tight end Eric Ebron has seen enough of second-round pick Pat Freiermuth to be intrigued.
"Pat's gonna be good, man, Pat's gonna be pretty good," Ebron assessed. "It's hard to dictate what everyone looks like in shorts and helmets, because everyone looks good. But I'm excited to see him grow as a tight end. It's a lot of information we're throwing at him. It's a lot of different things he needs to know at this position.
"I'm just looking forward to see him grow, man. To me, he's just a smooth playmaker. He's silky smooth, he doesn't look like he's trying too hard and he's capable of a lot. He asks a lot of questions, which is good. He's really easy to talk to, which is cool. I look forward to seeing him grow in this league. It's gonna be fun to watch him."
Ebron is also excited about the role he anticipates the tight ends will be playing in the scheme of new offensive coordinator Matt Canada.
"It gets me very excited," Ebron said. "I think I'll be featured a lot more. The tight end position, period, I feel like will be featured a lot more. Having Pat and some of the other guys we have, our tight end room is pretty strong.
"From the three days that I've been here, well, two, we've dominated. And I say that with emphasis because I feel like our room is pretty good and I feel like we should carry a lot of stress upon our room to be great every week because we're very capable of that, especially in Canada's offense."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Showing his love for football
Dwayne Haskins sounds like a man with a new lease on his football life, ready to make the most of it with the Steelers.
Haskins was drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, the No. 15 pick overall, by the Washington Football Team. He has completed 267 of 444 pass attempts for 2,804 yards (60.1%) with 12 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in two seasons.
In 2020 he completed 148 of 241 passes for 1,439 yards, five touchdowns and seven interceptions, before being released by Washington, a move he admitted surprised him.
"It was for sure humbling," said Haskins. "I just wanted to be in a place where I was wanted, and I am wanted here. I am thankful for the opportunity to be somewhere where I feel like I can be myself and play ball and not worry about the other stuff that comes along with it."
He is putting the past behind him and is ready to make his mark in black and gold.
"Just coming here to Pittsburgh, I wanted to prove to the coaching staff and my teammates how much I love football," said Haskins. "I am grateful for the opportunity to be here. My mind is in the right place. I am wiling to work to show my talents and be able to earn a spot here. Being able to be here now, I want to work hard and figure things out together."
Haskins said he has been welcomed by everyone and has already built a strong bond with the others in the quarterbacks' room, all who are helping him with the adjustment.
"It's been great," said Haskins. "I had a prior relationship with Josh (Dobbs). I have known him since college. He has been really great being able to help me with the nuances of the offense. I worked out with Mason (Rudolph) in the offseason, knew him prior to minicamp and OTAs. I have been a big 'Big Ben' (Roethlisberger) fan for a while.
Just to be in the quarterback room with these guys and learn from them. Coach (Mike) Sullivan has also been great. He coached Eli Manning during his Super Bowl run. Just having those guys know a lot about football and doing their best to help me out it's been a great experience."
Another person who has been in Haskins' corner is Coach Mike Tomlin. Tomlin said on Wednesday his number one goal is to get to know Haskins the person, which is something the quarterback welcomes.
"Relationships are everything, on the field, off the field," said Haskins. "Coach Tomlin has been a great guy as far as getting to know me, as far as what I need to do as a quarterback and what I need to do off the field. He has been very hands on with me and our communication. I am grateful for a Hall of Fame coach to take the time as far as helping me out. He has made that known to me. He has been a motivator talking to me. He has been great. Everything I have heard about him is true and everyone around here loves him."
Haskins knows there are expectations on for him from many with his pedigree, but also has high expectations for himself.
"My expectation here is to make everyone who took a chance on me look good," said Haskins. "Work as hard as I possibly can and let my work speak for itself. I want to take over after Big Ben, but that comes with due time. They expect a lot out of me as far as being prepared.
"I love Pittsburgh. I will do what I can to leave my mark here."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Staying focused
The band is back.
That is the feeling in the Steelers receivers' room, where the full complement from 2020 is in the mix in 2021 after JuJu Smith-Schuster re-signed for one year, and it's something that has them feeling good.
"Just by him coming back, that brings back the chemistry the group has as a whole," said Diontae Johnson. "We are a really tight group. We all get along with one another. Just having him back it's fun."
There is another weapon that can help the group even more this year, and he's coming from the running backs room. First-round pick Najee Harris is already showing during the offseason what kind of weapon he can be in the passing game, something the receivers are looking forward to.
"It's different," said Johnson of Harris' pass catching ability. "It takes a lot of pressure off the receivers having a guy like him being able to catch out of the backfield like that. It's special because it also puts a lot of pressure on the defense too because they have to worry about covering a running back who is capable of catching like a receiver.
"Being around him, his work ethic, how hard practice shows he is hungry and ready to play."
Johnson is hungry too. He is coming off a season where he admitted he had struggled with some drops, the result of losing focus on the ball because he was thinking about the run before the catch. He spent time this offseason working on his focus and is now ready to show that what happened in 2020 won't happen again.
"I have been working on everything," said Johnson. "You can't focus on one specific thing. Yeah, I had drops last year but that comes with focus and stuff like that. Just having confidence in myself. I have been believing in myself every time and knowing every time that ball comes my way, I am going to make that catch."
While many players spend endless hours catching more footballs to get that focus back, Johnson went a different route this offseason.
"I have been catching on my tennis ball machine I bought this offseason," said Johnson. "It's a smaller target so you have to focus on the ball. It's not a big object coming at you. Now when I catch a football, it's always been easy to me, but it's that focus and keeping it.
"Taking your eye off the ball that one split second. That is the main thing. Focus. I have been focusing on catch first, run second."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Wednesday, June 16
Taking the next step
The Steelers are on the doorstep of completing their offseason program, with Day 2 of the team's three-day mandatory minicamp at Heinz Field in the books.
Coach Mike Tomlin likes the progression he is seeing from the team, with them learning from everything they are putting on tape.
"We have some tape from yesterday to teach and learn from," said Tomlin. "It's always a good time of year to evaluate that adjustment or that teaching and learning aspect of tape. Yesterday's tape provided something for us to talk about this morning and this afternoon provided us an opportunity to make corrections or display understanding or progress in all three phases. Collectively that's how we all get better in this process. I felt good about that today.
"I liked the collective attention of the group and the energy they are bringing. By no means are we football ready yet, but I doubt that anybody is if they are being honest with themselves this time of year."
Football ready, no. But ready to take that next step is definitely where some of the team's second-year players are, in particular defensive backs James Pierre and Antoine Brooks Jr.
Pierre made the 53-man roster in 2020 as an undrafted rookie, and played in all 16 games on special teams, but seeing some reps on defense, and finished the year with 10 tackles, including seven solo stops. Coaches and teammates have been singing Pierre's praise during minicamp and Tomlin expects him to continue to grow and step up.
"He is one of those second-year guys that we all have high expectations for," said Tomlin. "I think it's reasonable when you've been around a guy that's been in the program and understands what to expect, what is needed of him physically, mentally and so forth. I think we are looking for all of those second-year players to gain experience. That guy gained a lot of experience last year. He didn't play a lot of defense, but he had a helmet every week, he was preparing every week. He was a critical component of our special teams unit and that is usually an indication that a guy is ready to proceed and advance, and I think it's reasonable to expect him to do so."
Brooks, a sixth-round pick in 2020, had an up and down season in 2020, going from the practice squad, to the Active/Inactive roster multiple times, and eventually on the 53-man roster. Brooks saw his first game action in Week 9 against Dallas, and the following week against the Cincinnati Bengals finished with two tackles, one solo and one assist. He is among those who could be in the mix for the nickel position vacated by the departure of Mike Hilton.
"He played the slot for us some last year in regular season football games when Mike Hilton missed a block of time," said Tomlin. "One specifically here at home he probably played 25 plus snaps on defense. His college resume indicates he has capability in that area. We worked him there in the past. He's had some success. He will be given an opportunity to grow and develop and display those skills. We'll determine when we get closer to action how we divide the labor and who does what. But he's done a good job of that thus far."
Both young players are relying on the leadership of veterans to get them where they need to be, including Joe Haden who brings the secondary together.
"Joe is a leader in the secondary," said Tomlin. "Joe is a natural leader. He wears that in a very natural way, a very welcoming way. He calms the waters if you will. He is a guy that displays veteran presence and poise almost in all circumstances. His presence is always valued."
The Steelers participate in day 2 of the 2021 minicamp at Heinz Field
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback DeMarkus Acy (30) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Donovan Stiner (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Quincy Roche (48) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ulysees Gilbert III (54) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31), Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88), Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Dax Raymond (49) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Calvin Taylor (67) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Shakur Brown (29) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Calvin Taylor (67) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Vince Williams (98) and Pittsburgh Steelers Inside Linebacker Coach Jerry Olsavsky practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Tyson Alualu (94) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Calvin Bundage (33) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Vince Williams (98) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jarvis Miller (45) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamar Watson (50) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Aviante Collins (61) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) and Pittsburgh Steelers Inside Linebacker Coach Jerry Olsavsky practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mark Gilbert (17) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Shakur Brown (29) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Coach Eddie Faulkner practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Robert Spillane (41) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Abdullah Anderson (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Abdullah Anderson (65) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kalen Ballage (29) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83), Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback DeMarkus Acy (30), and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Lamont Wade (24) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Kendrick Green (53) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle John Leglue (77) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Jarron Jones (74) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle John Leglue (77) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center J.C. Hassenauer (60) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Devin Bush (55) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Kevin Rader (87) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Wednesday June 16, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Getting mad, getting even
Second-year cornerback James Pierre wasn't happy with the first day of mandatory veteran minicamp on Tuesday, with one play in particular.
So he did something about it today.
"I had one bad play, guy caught the ball, I just took it personal," Pierre explained. "I came in with the right mindset.
"I should come in every day like that. I was on myself for letting somebody catch the ball. I woke up early, earlier than I usually do, attacked the day with the right mindset."
Pierre, a candidate for more playing time in a transitioning secondary after excelling on special teams as an undrafted rookie last season, responded with a pair of interceptions this afternoon.
The one that came in a two-minute drill was Pierre's favorite of the two.
"I like the two-minute because it actually got the guys, got the whole team, the energy of the defense, just to see the guys turning up with me," Pierre said. "The two minute, to end it, it's just a good feeling just to see the guys pumped, the energy of the defense."
It may have been a bigger deal that both of the passes Pierre intercepted were thrown by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
"To be honest, Ben is not just throwing anybody a ball," Pierre said. "It's precious to get one of those. It's hard to get it from Ben so when I got those it kinda made me smile. But just to see the other guys, it made me happier.
"And then after practice Ben came up to me, told me good job, gave me a fist bump. It built my confidence a little bit."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
The more you can do
Listed on the roster at 6-foot and 255 pounds, seventh-round pick Pressley Harvin III is anything but a typical punter.
As a result, Harvin may be asked to do more than punt.
"The best thing we can do with this guy is, you know about the quarterback sneak play? You're gonna see a punt-sneak play with this big dude," special teams coordinator Danny Smith insisted. "That's the first thing we started working on.
"Maybe he can get a yard."
Smith was kidding about the "sneak" part, but he still maintained Harvin will be required to do a lot more than merely kick the ball far.
"A strong leg isn't just the answer," Smith said. "There's a lot of strong legs out there that don't make it in this league. I call it, 'You gotta have game.' You gotta be able to pooch punt. You gotta be able to put the ball out of bounds. You gotta have a good get-off time. You gotta hold (for place kicks), in most cases. There's a lot of factors involved and those are the kinds of things we're working on.
"But we are very excited about him and very excited about working with him. We'll see how it all unfolds."
Harvin has experience as a holder from his days at Georgia Tech, but he didn't hold on a full-time basis.
"They had a situation at Georgia Tech that they used two kickers," Smith explained. "It was much like a pitcher and a catcher, one had a holder that he liked and the other one had a holder that he liked, so you could call it part-time holding. When his guy kicked, he held. When the other guy kicked, the other guy held.
"So yes, he has experience holding. Yes, he's quite capable. Yes, he has a lot to learn to perfect it."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Sorting out cornerback options
The plan, as outlined by senior defensive assistant Teryl Austin, is to keep cornerback Cam Sutton playing outside initially in the position vacated by Steven Nelson's departure.
That'll provide the Steelers an opportunity to evaluate whether they have adequate replacements for the nickel cornerback job that opened up when Mike Hilton left via free agency, and for the inside role Sutton formerly handled in the six-defensive backs "dime" defense.
"I know Cam can play inside," Austin said. "We're letting these other guys kind of work inside to see what we have.
"I know for a fact Cam would not need a lot of reps if he had to move inside."
One of the first in line among the candidates to pick up where Hilton left off is Antoine Brooks, a sixth-round pick out of Maryland who played sparingly as a rookie in 2020.
"He is an option," Austin said. "That's where he's working. That's really, when you looked at him coming out of Maryland, he was listed as a safety but he basically played a nickel-type position and he was very productive there. He still has a ways to go but I think the progress is coming. It's really important that we did have an offseason this year, and that'll allow him to have an opportunity to win the job in there.
"There's still a long ways to go and we're just going to see how it plays out. But I do like his progress, he is working hard at it and I think that's really the position that he can help us moving forward."
Whoever ends up replacing Hilton will need to show a similar affinity for blitzing.
"That's one of the things that's pretty important for our defense," Austin said. "That guy's gotta be a part-corner, part-linebacker, and if he's not a very good blitzer then that limits you in terms of some of the things, scheme-wise, you do.
"We're hoping that the person that ends up in there has the ability, we know he won't be Mike but has the ability to do those similar-type things."
If such a player ultimately isn't discovered and Sutton winds up moving inside on a regular basis, Austin has confidence in second-year pro James Pierre and third-year pro Justin Layne to handle periodic assignments outside.
Both have dabbled in such a role in the past.
"I like our young guys," Austin said. "I like James Pierre. I like J-Layne. Ability wise, James and J-Layne I know for sure have ability to play in this league and be quality players. It just depends on how fast and how far they progress.
"I'm comfortable there, but i'm also aware that if we have a way to better our team and it happens to be an outside guy then I'm more than happy to have him, as well."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Let's get physical
If there is a theme that has been common during minicamp, and the entire offseason for that matter, it's been physicality on offense.
Last year the Steelers ground game was ranked last in the NFL. To get it back to where it should be, to what the norm is, the focus on offense has been instilling a physical approach. It starts up front with the line, moves to the tight ends and the backfield. But it's also key that the receiving corps also brings the heat.
"Our guys that have size need to utilize that with JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and Chase (Claypool)," said receivers coach Ike Hilliard. "Other guys in terms of physicality, whether it's in the run or pass game, it all starts with hand usage and fits. With the running game we all know we want to improve. A big component of that is what we are going to do on the perimeter as a receiving group. We are going to have to make our fits, blocking safeties and corners, in order to help our running backs get off and continue to grow in the area of press coverage where we get off the line of scrimmage so we can get down field and execute our assignments."
While being physical will be one of the primary focuses, it won't be the only one. In 2020 the receivers were plagued with dropped passes, something Hilliard has addressed with the group.
"Unfortunately, drops are part of the game," said Hilliard. "Obviously, we had too many balls on the ground. It's been discussed. Our group understands and they know we have to do a better job of not putting the ball on the ground. We work at it every day. We're going to be cognizant of limiting our drops going forward."
Hilliard has his entire receiving corps from last season back in the fold this year after Smith-Schuster was re-signed to a one-year contract. Now it's just a matter of putting them all in the perfect spot to make plays, something that has also been a hot topic as Smith-Schuster said he wanted to move from his slot spot to the outside and see more time there.
"We're working on becoming an offense where we can plug and play guys based off the system," said Hilliard. "With JuJu having an aspiration to play outside, inside, wherever, we're going to do the best we can as a coaching staff to get the best players in the best position to make plays so their skillsets can take over. JuJu is going to be a big part of that."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Speed matters
Joe Haden got a huge smile on his face and made it clear.
"I don't want no parts of the slot," laughed Haden.
He won't have to worry about that. And he knows it.
Haden was actually talking about not wanting the role fellow corner Cameron Sutton somehow manages to do, playing outside or inside in the slot, or whatever they ask of him.
Sutton has been the jack-of-all-trades for the secondary, although this year he will have a more defined role as a starting corner with Haden after Steven Nelson was released this offseason.
"It's a different ball game on the inside," said Haden. "Those little slot receivers, the route trees are totally different. Just timing and stuff like that. Cam Sutton, that is what he does. He is a great inside and outside guy. I am more of an outside guy. I don't want no parts of the slot. Cam is able to play both at such a high level. He is able to go inside and outside. Cam is a Swiss Army knife. He can do a little bit of everything.
"Cam Sutton is going to be able to thrive on the outside corner. He is a great nickel and outside guy. He is going to be a solid corner starter in the league."
Haden said he did play inside and outside early in his career but admits it's something that is a completely different animal and one he doesn't mind steering clear of.
"I can do it," said Haden. "The studying, it's just a lot harder when you are playing the nickel back position. We have a lot of defenses. on the outside corner it's more basic. On the inside there are so many different calls. It's a lot. Cam did a really good job. He knows the entire defense. He knows what is going on. And being able to cover those smaller quicker dudes, you have to be very, very quick. That is just what he does."
At corner, speed does matter. Which is why Haden, who is entering his 12th season, spent a lot of his offseason working on that speed rather than hitting the weight room hard.
"Getting older I just have to keep my speed," said Haden. "It's less lifting weights, it's more conditioning, training, running, keeping that speed. That is the first thing that goes when you get older as a corner is the speed. If you can't keep up with those dudes, that's what starts to get your game out of there. Above the neck I am so much smarter, I just work on keeping my speed up."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Tuesday, June 15
A lot on the agenda
The Steelers moved their operations from the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex to Heinz Field for the team's three-day mandatory minicamp, giving players new to the black and gold this year an opportunity to get a feel for the place they will be calling home when the season starts.
"We chose to work over here at the stadium," said Coach Mike Tomlin following Tuesday's practice. "We always want to give the new Steelers, whether it's a guy going from college to pro or a guy that's new to us, a feeling of what this facility is like, how to move around it and get comfortable working in this environment. We're excited about doing that today."
While the venue has changed, and there are a few more players on hand, the practices and goal are relatively similar to what takes place during OTAs. There is no hitting that takes place and as Tomlin said, it's 'football-like, not football.'
"We've got a lot of things on our agenda," said Tomlin. "General conditioning is always where we start. Making sure we walk out of here with an understanding that physical condition precedes any other discussion. The best thing the guys can do between now and training camp is ready themselves in that way. Making points in that regard.
"We're also talking schematics. We've done some new things offensively and getting an opportunity to wrap a bow around that. We're also doing some new things defensively as well, getting an opportunity to work in totality."
With the work being more conditioning and drill-based, giving an evaluation on the progress of younger players is something Tomlin steers clear of this time of year, knowing it wouldn't be a fair evaluation. He was asked specifically about the young defensive backs, which include Justin Layne and James Pierre, and their progress as the team tries to fill the holes with Steven Nelson and Mike Hilton not back for 2021.
"I haven't seen a lot," said Tomlin. "This is football-like, it's not football. It's drill work. Were' teaching and learning and getting the opportunity to compete, but it's in a controlled sort of way that evaluations are fruitless. I could spend time trying to evaluate and get a litmus, but those opinions may change quickly when we get in real football circumstances here later in the summer. I reserve that judgment. I am really focused on the teaching and the learning and how they communicate and whether they are putting themselves in position to be players or playmakers. From that standpoint it's so far so good, but there are so many things you can't glean from football in the manner we are doing it now. It's unfair to evaluate from those circumstances."
While he didn't weigh in on the progress this offseason, Tomlin did address what he saw from Pierre last year, when he made the roster as an undrafted rookie free agent.
"I saw consistent varsity gunner play," said Tomlin. "Oftentimes when you have that level of consistency and performance in a special teams area, it's often an indication of advancement, or maturity and growth opportunity in the other phases as well. I think over the course of my time here the young guys that are consistent and perform in that area usually ascend within the offense or defensive unit, so it's reasonable to expect him to do that. He got a lot of in game experience last year, although it was in the special teams area. I think that field time and game speed exposure will help him in his growth and development. I think it's reasonable to expect him to utilize that experience as a catalyst for his growth on defense."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Tomlin Tidbits:
* Coach Tomlin was asked about the Steelers progress as far as players being vaccinated for COVID-19.
"I like our overall trajectory of our participation in the vaccination process," said Tomlin. "Guys are working hard to adhere to the polices and the protocols. It's just been a continuation of 2020 in regard to our attitude. We are going to work hard to adhere. We will look for an advantage that compliance might get us. Participation has been awesome from what I understand. We are doing really well relative to the rest of our peers. We just hope to continue to work in that area and hopefully it is a winning edge as we proceed. From what I understand, we are tops in the league in terms of this process."
* The Steelers had a strong turnout for the first day of minicamp, with Stephon Tuitt an excused absence after a tragic death in his family.
"Everyone knows the personal circumstance that Stephon Tuitt and his family is going through," said Tomlin. "He has our full support, and our hearts go out to him and his loved ones for their loss."
* And finally, Tomlin weighed in on how second-year outside linebacker Alex Highsmith can form a bond with T.J. Watt the way Watt and Bud Dupree had.
"It starts first with two really good players," said Tomlin. "The best thing that Alex can do is continue to sharpen his skills and get better and grow and develop as a player. You know we've got great expectations for a second-year guy in terms of proceeding in his career and taking a step not only in understanding the preparedness, but production and consistency. He's been a highly professional, mature young man, and so I think it's reasonable to expect those things to happen. But make no mistake, before you start talking about dynamic duos and tandems and so forth, it requires two big-time, varsity players. And so he's working to grow and improve his game."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
The Steelers participate in day 1 of the 2021 minicamp at Heinz Field
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Kevin Dotson (69) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Joe Haeg (71) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Kendrick Green (53) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Rashaad Coward (79) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35), Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Antoine Brooks Jr. (25) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers long snapper Kameron Canaday (57) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Stephen Denmark (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Isaiah McKoy (17) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback DeMarkus Acy (30) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Justin Layne (31) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels (38) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Zach Gentry (81) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Buddy Johnson (51) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers center J.C. Hassenauer (60) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers fullback Derek Watt (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner (72) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Jarron Jones (74) and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Dan Moore Jr. (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle John Leglue (77) and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman B.J. Finney (67) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and Pittsburgh Steelers center Kendrick Green (53) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Caitlyn Epes / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers huddle following practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Tyler Simmons (82) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Tre Norwood (21) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin following practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle John Leglue (77) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Rashaad Coward (79) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Miles Killebrew (28) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Anthony Johnson (83) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington (13) and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Chukwuma Okorafor (76) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Rico Bussey (84) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mathew Sexton (80) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Shakur Brown (29) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Cody White (15) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud (14) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. (26) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (39) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins (3) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell Jr. (24) and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Trey Edmunds (33) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (19) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) and Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Eric Ebron (85) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Carter (61) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jamir Jones (44) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Chris Wormley (95) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Carlos Davis (73) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Quincy Roche (48) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cassius Marsh (49) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Henry Mondeaux (99) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiah Buggs (96) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Abdullah Anderson (65) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton (20) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Terrell Edmunds (34) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback DeMarkus Acy (30) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back James Pierre (42) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Arthur Maulet (35) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk (92) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden (23) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Pittsburgh Steelers practice at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pittsburgh Steelers punter Jordan Berry (4) practices at Heinz Field during the 2021 Minicamp, Tuesday June 15, 2021. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Finding their roles
The Steelers seem set at outside linebacker on the surface with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith back and ready to roll.
But beyond that, who the backup to those two will be, the guy that will give them the much-needed break as the season progresses, is something that is still up in the air.
"We're looking for the third guy," said defensive coordinator Keith Butler. "We've always had a third guy that could come in. We've always wanted to have a third guy. Last year that third guy was Alex, of course. Again, we lost Bud (Dupree). Bud was a big part of our defense. We hated to lose him, but that's just the nature of this game sometimes.
"But we're looking for a third guy right now who's going to step up. Hopefully Cassius (Marsh) can give us a little help there too. We'll see. We drafted a couple guys. We drafted one guy and we think he's going to be all right. We'll see about that third guy. Cassius, we think, can help us there. We'll see as we go along. Hopefully, we can stay healthy at that position and do some of the stuff that we did last year and do it better, if we can."
Outside linebacker isn't the only spot where the pecking order is still being decided. With Devin Bush expected to be fully back from his knee injury, Vince Williams re-signed, and the emergence of Robert Spillane last season, plus the addition of rookie Buddy Johnson, depth isn't an issue.
"We'll have to see what Buddy can do," said Butler. "He's coming from college. This is a faster game than college is. It's quicker, it happens fast. Everything happens fast here. So, Buddy's going to have to get used to that. I was real pleased with the way Robert played last year. I think he'll play just as well or better this year. We have to see what Devin Bush does when he comes back. We think he's going to be okay. He's done a good job of rehabbing his knee, but we still have to see how it's going to hold up. And that will tell us later in the preseason, if we can get a few games out of him in the preseason and see how his knee feels and get a gauge of where he's at, that will tell us how much we're going to play Vince, how much we're going to play Robert, how much we've got to play Devin, all of that."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Learning to downshift
As it turns out quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wasn't exaggerating to make a point when he mentioned running backs coach Eddie Faulkner having to chase No. 1 pick Najee Harris out of the film room during OTAs.
"It is true," Faulkner confirmed. "I'm for all the hard work and the extra, I'm all here for that, I love it. But he also has to learn how to give himself breaks, too. He works his butt off and sometimes it's a reward, like, 'Hey man, go home, relax, watch TV, do something different than the football.'
"And so with him being the kind of guy he is, so engaged and always wanting to do drills, always wanting to be developed, sometimes I'm trying to teach him, 'Sometimes you gotta take a deep breath.'"
When it's time to put the time in, Harris doesn't have to be told twice.
"It's crazy because I don't have to coach any of it with him," Faulkner continued. "Most of the time you encourage guys, 'Hey, man, come in, get extra tape, come in, do extra work, etc., etc. Have not had to have one, single conversation with Najee in that regard because he's always soaking it up and always wanting it. That's a coach's dream. That's what you want, tail-waggers, like a dog wagging a tail ready to learn. And that's exactly what he is in terms of his ambition and drive to want to learn.
"That's fun as a coach."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
OC, QB on the same page
New offensive coordinator Matt Canada maintained there won't be any issues relative to what he wants to do and what quarterback Ben Roethlisberger prefers to do when the Steelers have the ball.
"We're gonna do what Ben wants to do and how Ben wants to do it," Canada said. "Our job is putting every player in position to make plays. There are changes with terminology, how we're calling things, which has been an adjustment for Ben. He has adapted easily, just like we all knew that he would.
"But that is our job, matchups are how you win football games. It starts with the quarterback, what does he do well? What does he like? What does he see? What is good to his eye in the passing game? And then we build off of that, and that's what we're gonna do. His voice, his vision, what he sees will be what we do."
Canada assessed Roethlisberger capable of doing whatever's required along those lines.
"Ben can do everything really well," Canada assessed. "I don't have any concern about Ben doing anything that we want to do.
"If you're gonna run the football, I think play-action is very important. Mr. Rooney (Steelers president Art II) has sent out a very clear directive to Mr. Colbert (General Manager Kevin), to Coach Tomlin (head coach Mike) and then to me, we want to be able to run the ball when we have to run it. That doesn't mean we're gonna run the ball for X-amount of yards in a game. All that matters here is winning. Our charge is to win the Super Bowl, and that's it.
"Every year you're trying to create a system to put your players in position to make plays. And to run the football, we certainly believe play-action is a part of that. But that's not the only focal point we have. We're gonna run the ball when we have to run it and we're gonna throw it when we have to throw it. And after that we're going to do everything we can to get our best players in position to make the plays their talents direct us to do."
That will potentially include wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster playing more outside than in the slot this season. But if it does it won't be because of Smith-Schuster's stated desire to do so.
"The great thing about JuJu is he loves to win," Canada said. "He's gonna be excited and happy when we win. Obviously, JuJu can do a lot of different things. Our job is to put players in position to make plays. It's not to run a certain play or a certain scheme or a certain anything.
"And if we believe putting anybody in any spot on the field gives us the best advantage to do that, that is our challenge."
-- Blog entry by Mike Prisuta
Staying open-minded
Ben Roethlisberger is entering his 18th season with the Steelers, a player who is set in his ways in many aspects.
But no matter how set he is, Roethlisberger has been open to change this offseason working with new quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan.
Sullivan, who himself brings 16 years of NFL experience to the table, said it's been a smooth transition this offseason.
"Ben has been phenomenal in terms of receptiveness, as far as having an open mind and being committed to having one goal and one goal only, and that is to win a world championship," said Sullivan. "I spent some time getting to know him one on one, getting to know him, him know me. Share our backgrounds, our beliefs. In terms of things we are doing in the meeting room, on the field, he is putting in the time. If that is going to help us be more effective offensively, help the run game, help the play action passes, ultimately that is going to help us win and that is what he wants, what we all want.
"The thing that makes this so gratifying is he has a willingness to work and he wants to do whatever it takes to win, so he is open minded. Things that he needs from a fundamental standpoint or drill standpoint are going to be different from other guys. I have to make sure we work on specifics to help him be his best. I would do him and the organization a disservice if I don't provide him that information. He has had an open mind and just wants to win."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Working together again
The Steelers kick off a mandatory three-day minicamp at Heinz Field on Tuesday, the first time the entire team will be back together this offseason as some of the veterans worked out on their own during the voluntary OTAs.
Linebacker T.J. Watt is among those back in the fold and said it's a good time to be with teammates, especially after not having an offseason program in 2020.
"I think it's just important to be around the guys," said Watt. "There are a lot of new faces. You can do it one year maybe because there is consistency in the locker room. But two years away there is turnover. It's good just to be around cultural things, just re-instilling what the Steelers way is. What our goals are and aspirations. To get out on the field and show guys how we practice so when we get into the fall a lot of that is to the side and we can just focus on football."
One of the main things Watt is focusing on during minicamp is working on the chemistry and communication with second-year linebacker Alex Highsmith. Highsmith stepped in last season when Bud Dupree was injured, and with Dupree's departure this offseason via free agency he will be called upon even more in 2021.
"I am really looking forward to working with him and continuing to work," said Watt. "The last five or six games we had together last year gave us a real good look at how we gel together and things we can improve on collectively. That starts with camp here and getting the communication with him and the whole front five. I am excited to get to work with these guys again."
Watt said he liked what he saw from Highsmith in his rookie season, but it's now about building on the consistency.
"I think the big thing is pass rush," said Watt of what Highsmith brings. "He has a great repertoire of moves already coming off his rookie year. He can spin, he can do his ghost move, he is developing more power in his game. I think that is a real high positive. I also think he handles the run well. It's just a matter of being more consistent for the both of us. I think that is the biggest challenge of being an NFL player, trying to be consistent week in and week out. I have said it time and time again. Anybody can have a great game. It's about putting together great weeks and a great season. That starts with being here at minicamp."
Highsmith's inexperience could bring more attention to Watt, like it did when he was in the lineup in 2020, with protections sliding to Watt's side. It's not something he is concerned about as it happened last year even when him and Dupree were in there together.
"I don't know if I can say exactly when, even when it was Bud and I, they were sliding to either one of us, chipping and everything," said Watt. "It was carryover from when it was Bud and I. We were seeing a lot of chips and slides.
"Alex is a really talented pass rusher himself too. If guys want to slide my way and chip and everything, he is going to have one on ones on the backside and I am very confident he is going to win the majority of those battles too. I don't think there is a way you can totally protect both of us at one time."
Watt had his best year yet in 2020. In addition to being voted team MVP, he was selected first-team Associated Press All-Pro, elected to the Pro Bowl, was voted 101 Awards AFC Defensive Player of the Year and won the Deacon Jones Award. Watt led the NFL in sacks with a career-high 15, quarterback hits with 41 and tackles for a loss with 23, while adding 53 tackles, 43 of them solo stops, seven pass defenses, two forced fumbles and an interception.
He still has work to do though.
"I just want to be the best possible player I can be, not just for myself but for the Pittsburgh Steelers," said Watt. "I want to make splash plays. The big thing for me is noticing the plays I didn't make last year, wishing I could have converted on some forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, sacks, tackles for a loss. There is a lot of good from last year, but there is a lot of stuff I can continue to improve on. That is why I love this game so much. You are never at your ceiling. I am just trying to get better each and every year. That is what I intend to do starting with this minicamp."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
Edmunds staying focused
Terrell Edmunds is keeping his options open as he heads into the 2021 season. After the Steelers didn't pick up the fifth-year option on his contract, he knows the door isn't shut as far as him staying with the team. But he also knows a change could be coming.
"Coach (Mike) Tomlin called me personally and told me they weren't going to pick up my fifth-year option this year," said Edmunds. "He told me that doesn't mean business is over, but just stay motivated and come out and do what I can.
"I would love to come back to Steelers Nation. They are the people that gave me the opportunity to come into the NFL, made all of my dreams come true. It is still open. Maybe next year we can make something happen. I am just coming in every day, working hard every day, keeping my head on straight, and give 100 percent every game. Everything is on a whole new level. You have to bet on yourself, double down on yourself and just do hard work."
Even without any guarantee beyond this year, Edmunds was a regular at the team's OTAs and now is taking part in minicamp, something he feels is important especially with some changes in the secondary with Steven Nelson and Mike Hilton not back for 2021.
"I think it was good we all came together," said Edmunds. "We lost some guys. Just to have new guys in those roles feel comfortable with the calls and adjustments, that is a big thing for our chemistry.
"Right now, we are keeping everything the same. It worked last year. Everyone was in good position. If it's not broke don't fix it. Minkah (Fitzpatrick) said that the other day and we want to stick to that."
-- Blog entry by Teresa Varley
