The Pittsburgh Steelers resumed their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on Tuesday. While attendance is not mandatory, linebacker Patrick Queen emphasized the importance of participating to familiarize with new teammates and schemes. “I think it’s really important to get to meet new teammates, new players in new positions, new calls, new schemes,” said Queen.
Queen noted a strong turnout among defensive starters and expressed excitement about working with fellow linebacker Payton Wilson. “We’ve got young guys coming in with Jack (Sawyer) off the edge,” Queen stated. He also highlighted his comfort level entering his second season with the team under inside linebackers coach Scott McCurley.
Veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward was present despite entering his 15th season. “I am going through the process,” said Heyward, who stayed after practice for additional work with younger players like Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black. “It’s about how can we make this team the best it can be,” he added.
Nickelback Beanie Bishop is focused on securing a starting position by maintaining a competitive edge and improving his physical condition. “It’s my spot right now, but you’ve got to always work and keep that competitive edge,” Bishop remarked.
Receiver Calvin Austin III expressed confidence heading into his fourth season. “Just having that confidence that anytime I step on the field, no one can guard me,” Austin said.
The Steelers signed receiver Montana Lemonious-Craig, who joined OTAs immediately after signing. Lemonious-Craig played at Arizona and Colorado during his college career.
Second-year wide receiver Roman Wilson aims to improve daily, treating each practice as if it were game day. “Really, my goals for the season are to get better every single day,” Wilson stated. After an injury-limited rookie year, Wilson looks forward to learning from veteran Metcalf during this offseason program.
