Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their training camp at Saint Vincent College on Friday, maintaining the acclimation period with pads set to be introduced on Tuesday, July 30. Coach Mike Tomlin expressed satisfaction with the day's practice.

"A real awesome day out here in terms of teaching and learning, and I think that's the component at this stage of the journey," said Tomlin. "There's so much area for improvement that you just see significant coaching points and lesson opportunities with each snap of the ball."

Tomlin emphasized the importance of continuous improvement as they approach the preseason. "The preseason gets on us quick in today's NFL, and so days like today there's significant learning like will happen tonight, and then the analysis of it is significant as well."

Russell Wilson remained sidelined, while Justin Fields took snaps with the first offensive group. Fields appeared more effective and comfortable during Friday's practice after a layoff between offseason programs.

"Like I talked to the team about, I very rarely, particularly at this stage of the journey, do I worry about who's not working," said Tomlin. "I view it more as an opportunity for those who are working."

Tomlin also highlighted Kyle Allen's performance due to Wilson's absence. "I was really excited about (No. 3 quarterback) Kyle Allen today getting elevated work as a consequence of Russell's injury."

Fields showcased his skills during practice:

- He threw a pass leading WR Calvin Austin III through the secondary.

- Executed a read-option play demonstrating his speed.

- Threw a near 50-yard pass to George Pickens.

- Completed a deep slant throw to TE Pat Freiermuth.

Friday's session included "7-shots," which was missing from Thursday’s practice. Tomlin re-inserted first teams for deciding plays, emphasizing competition.

"We don't want the third group to determine the winner of a drill," said Tomlin.

Changes were made along the offensive line during Fields' snaps in "7-shots." Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones initially played left tackle and right tackle but were later adjusted with rookie Troy Fautanu joining as right tackle.

Tomlin provided an update on injuries: "No real news, new news on the injury front. We held Russ out again today... It could still be characterized as day to day."