Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – At Saint Vincent College, quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields split reps with the first-team offense during training camp on August 6. No. 1 pick Troy Fautanu took snaps at right tackle with the first team, while Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones alternated at left tackle.

Wilson's participation indicates progress in his recovery from a calf injury sustained during a conditioning test on July 24. The rotation of offensive tackles appears to be an evaluation of Fautanu's development two weeks into his first professional training camp.

Coach Mike Tomlin expressed satisfaction with the team's performance following physical practices last Friday and Sunday, and a day off on Monday. "I really like the spirit that they brought to the work today coming off an off day," said Tomlin. "We can't waste time. The days are precious."

During the 7-Shots drill, Wilson handed the ball to Najee Harris for a touchdown and threw a fade to George Pickens for another score. Fields was stopped on a read-option play, and his pass for Pickens was intercepted by safety DeShon Elliott. Kyle Allen’s slant pass was intercepted by safety Nate Meadors, followed by RB Aaron Shampklin scoring over left guard to tie at 3-3. In the deciding play, Wilson handed off to Harris who was judged short of the goal line, giving the defense a 4-3 win.

In other observations, veteran RB Jonathan Ward continues to impress in practice sessions behind Harris and Jaylen Warren. During an 11-on-11 drill, Ward broke through for a long touchdown run. CB Anthony Averett made notable plays in the secondary including an interception off a deflection by CB Cory Trice Jr., and breaking up another pass attempt.

Cordarrelle Patterson, currently on the non-football injury list due to a hamstring issue, engaged in light running as part of his rehabilitation process.

Coach Tomlin provided an update on injuries: "We've got a laundry list of camp-like injuries... LB Tyler Murray has a groin; LB Alex Highsmith has a groin; S Nate Meadors has a hamstring; DE DeMarvin Leal had something happen." He added that such injuries are typical for this stage of training camp and present opportunities for other players to step up.