Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – The Pittsburgh Steelers commenced their training camp on Wednesday at Saint Vincent College, marking over 50 years at this location. Head Coach Mike Tomlin, now in his 17th year, discussed the team's ongoing tradition of holding destination training camps and acknowledged some changes this year.

"All are present and accounted for in terms of attendance," stated Tomlin. "We just did our conditioning test. It was a really good experience, but we did a little something different this year. We're really excited about it, just exposing (the players) to that and gathering information, just gauging the readiness of this group. It's a really impressive collective from that perspective."

Three players will begin camp on various lists: Inside linebacker Cole Holcomb and defensive lineman Dean Lowry are on the physically unable to perform list, while returner Cordarrelle Patterson is on the non-football injury list due to a hamstring injury sustained before camp.

Tomlin expressed enthusiasm for the Saint Vincent College setting. "Just really excited about getting this group in this environment," he said. "We appreciate coming to Latrobe. We don't take it for granted. We realize that in 2024 we're in the minority in terms of teams that go to a destination camp. We're really excited about the winning edge that we believe it provides us."

Tomlin elaborated on the intangible benefits of such an environment: "The camaraderie, the mutual understanding and respect gained in informal time spent at the end of the day," he explained.

This year's camp also features several new faces among players and coaches, including quarterback Russell Wilson, who joined during free agency in March.

"He likes to work. I just think that is a really good place to begin," Tomlin said about Wilson. "He's highly conditioned. He brings a unique approach to the weight room for a guy who plays his position."

New offensive coordinator Arthur Smith replaces Matt Canada, adding another layer of adjustment for the team.

"I think that remains to be seen," Tomlin commented regarding how Wilson and Smith will work together. "It's Day 1... All of those things will be revealed as we get into the nitty gritty component of this."

Tomlin also addressed why the Steelers will hold a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills on Aug. 15: "Particularly with the new kickoff rules, we're just interested in getting some work against other people," he said.

Additionally, former seventh-round pick Tyler Matakevich has been brought back to bolster special teams amid uncertainties surrounding new kickoff rules.

"I know that proven capable special teamers are significant when you are faced with the unknown in the kickoff rules," noted Tomlin.

Despite his appreciation for Saint Vincent College's offerings, Tomlin emphasized that success would ultimately be measured by performance during the season.

"I judge camp based on how we perform during the season," he concluded.