The Pittsburgh Steelers took to the practice field at St. Vincent College for their final practice before a day off followed by the pads going on. Following practice Sunday, head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media. Asked several questions by those in attendance, there was more than enough for a players mentioned article. Remember these are players where a specific question was asked during the Q&A period.

Kwon Alexander

Being the newest member of the Pittsburgh Steelers added to the roster, it was expected that inside linebacker Kwon Alexander would have multiple questions asked following his first practice. Coach Tomlin was asked first about how important it was to add a guy like Alexander.

“You know, we’re interested in competition and so, we’ll continue to have an eye for that. But it’s not a new discussion, we’ve
been in communication with Kwon and his people for the better part of the summer.”

For the next question, Coach Tomlin was asked why now was the right time to bring him in.

“It just is, sometimes you want to wait on decision making in an effort to get quality looks at some of the young people that
you’re working with, etc. There’s a myriad of reasons why we have certain timing regarding acquisitions or decisions.”

The next question saw Coach Tomlin asked if Alexander excels at one area over any other.

“You know, I’m not going to worry about his reputation and resume that’ll be established out here.”

The final question about Alexander was if it was typical for someone to get that many reps during team period after only being with the team a few hours.

“Yes.”

Broderick Jones

With several veteran players getting the day off, 2023 first-round draft pick Broderick Jones got extended time with the first group. Coach Tomlin was asked if they should wait until Tuesday when the pads go on to get him to answer any questions about Jones or if there was something that stood out in today’s practice he could say.

“Yeah, Tuesday would be a good idea.”

Tre Norwood

Going into his third season, Tre Norwood saw some extended time at safety on Sunday. Coach Tomlin was asked how much he can lean on Norwood and how much he has grown over the last couple of years.

“He’s a smart kid, growth has been continual. You know, just need more playmaking from him and all the other young ones. I
was appreciative of the playmaking from Kenny Robinson today, another guy who had an opportunity to rise up because of the
short lines.”

Joey Porter Jr.

Another player who got extended time with the first team on Sunday was second-round draft pick Joey Porter Jr. Coach Tomlin was asked how he has seen Porter take on all the different challenges to start training camp.

“He’s ready and able. I like his attitude. I like his preparation in terms of his condition, and physical readiness, and we’ll continue
every day with the maturation process by stepping out and competing.”

Damontae Kazee

During Sunday’s practice, Damontae Kazee was seen in a walking boot after leaving Saturday’s practice due to injury. Coach Tomlin was asked the significance of Kazee‘s injury.

“I don’t know that. I’ll probably give you more information when I get it. But in environments like this, man, we don’t always
have immediate answers in that regard.”

Chuks Okorafor & Mitch Trubisky

While many of the veteran players got the day off, some were ready to go but we’re not given much action. Coach Tomlin was asked if Chuks Okorafor had somewhat of a vet day off by not participating.

“Again, it’s not about Chuk’s, it’s about more exposure to some others. We don’t get an opportunity to elevate Broderick unless
somebody’s minimized.”

In a follow up question, Coach Tomlin was asked if it was a similar situation with quarterback Mitch Trubisky.

“Yes.”

Mike Tomlin’s complete interview can be seen here:

Coach Tomlin wraps up the first week of #SteelersCamp. pic.twitter.com/a7SADIn7hy

— Steelers Live (@SteelersLive) July 30, 2023