What better way to start the first padded practice of Steelers training camp than on a beautiful, sunny day in Latrobe, PA?
With a new week of practice ahead of them, the Steelers took to the field for what ended up becoming a physical and spirited day at the office.
Today's camp storylines include a running back rising to the occasion, a tight end dominating all comers, and a clash of the titans.
So, Steelers fans, let's go!
Injury Report
The biggest story involved veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who came back to action in full pads after sitting out all of Week 1 with a calf strain. Though he participated in first-team warm-ups with teammate Justin Fields, he had minimal participation for the rest of the practice session.
During the 'seven shots' session, rookie receiver Roman Wilson suffered a lower-body injury that sidelined him for the remainder of practice. His status for tomorrow is unknown.
The other story involves roster moves made before practice. Receiver Marquez Callaway and defensive back Josiah Scott were both released in place of tight end Matt Sokol and defensive back Kyler McMichael.
Injury List -
TE Rodney Williams: AC Joint
WR Roman Wilson: Lower body
RB Cordarrelle Patterson: Hamstring
LB Cole Holcomb: PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) List
DL Dean Lowry: PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) List
Steelers Camp Day 5 Recap
Najee Harris Has Himself A Day
Harris was barely mentioned in Week 1, but on his first day in pads, he was one of the top performers. During "seven shots," he scored two scores as the offense prevailed 4-3. During 'backs-on-backers', he split reps with Elandon Roberts, a linebacker noted for his toughness.
Fautanu Dominates Watt
Perhaps the conclusion of this conflict was inevitable. There was some foreshadowing after their encounter on Day 4 (see the report). On this day, Fautanu defeated him convincingly on back-to-back reps. To say the least, Fautanu showed that he was a different type of lineman.
Darnell Washington Is A Force
At 6'9, 270 pounds, one should expect Darnell Washington to be a problem when it comes to one-on-one battles. On this day, Washington essentially bullied everyone that came his way with little to no effort. What he can do in this realm is unquestioned. The key for him this season is unlocking his offensive potential.
Calvin Austin III Shows Out
Calvin Austin III's speed allowed him to dominate one-on-ones, as many expected. Against UDFA defensive back Beanie Bishop, he prevailed effortlessly twice.
Defensive Line Emerges
The defensive line was the highlight of the much-anticipated team session (11-vs-11s). According to sources, veteran nose tackle Montravius Adams led the way with multiple run stops. Logan Lee, a rookie, impressed out with some run stops, as did linebacker Alex Highsmith.
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