It was like the first day of school for the Steelers' rookie class on Thursday, with all of them arriving in advance of the team's three-day minicamp at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
"It's good to finally be here and know that work is going to be done tomorrow," said first-round pick T.J. Watt. "It's really exciting to be here and get around the guys. I haven't met many of the guys yet. And it's finally playing football again. It's been so dang long and I am ready to get going.
"I haven't put any football gear on or been on a football field in competition since January 2 when my bowl game was. I am just really looking forward to putting on that Steelers' helmet, with the black face mask. I am really looking forward to it."
From draft picks, to rookie free agents, to those in for a tryout, everyone had the same feeling. It's time to get to work.
"I am too anxious to get out there," said seventh-round selection Keion Adams. "I haven't played in a game or done anything football related outside of drills since January. I am antsy to get out there and play football."
The routine on Thursday was get fitted for equipment, see where their lockers are, meet with the athletic training staff, and have photos taken.
The key factor was get all of those details out of the way before football starts on Friday.
"Today felt like move in day," said James Conner, one of the team's third-round picks. "You check in, get your helmet. It becomes real now.
"Now I am ready to get to work. I can't wait. I can't wait to show my skill set off in every part of the game. Whatever we do, kickoff drills, everything, I will be going full speed. I want to go out there and showcase what I've got."
