The Pittsburgh Steelers took to the practice field again at St. Vincent College for training camp on Saturday, this time in the afternoon. Following practice, head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media about their third day on the field. Since he was asked about a number of players, I am excited to continue the players mentioned article at Steel Curtain Network for the 2024 season! Remember these are players where a specific question was asked during the Q&A period.

Isaac Seumalo, Cam Heyward, & T.J. Watt

Coach Tomlin was asked about offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo not practicing on Saturday. In his response, Coach Tomlin mentioned other veterans who will be given days off on a rotating basis such as Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt.

“Yeah, that’s just maintenance. We’ll start rotating our veteran off days in an effort to preserve, but also to give exposure to young people. It’s twofold. You’ll see Cam [Heyward] and T.J. [Watt] and others who have been at it awhile and are familiar with this environment, give some days off. It’s about preserving them, giving them what they need to get ready, and quite frankly, sometimes experienced guys need less than others. But also providing an opportunity for the young guys to get additional reps and elevated reps against more experienced competition in some instances.”

Spencer Anderson

Coach Tomlin was asked about offensive lineman Spencer Anderson getting an opportunity with Seumalo having the day off.

“You know, he hadn’t shown a lot yet because it’s early in the process and there’s no football with helmets, but he’s an example of what I’m talking about. We expect some growth from him being a second-year guy. And so Isaac [Seumalo] having a day off allows him to work on his skills and display his skills.”

George Pickens

Coach Tomlin was asked about George Pickens going into his third year in the Steelers offense.

“I think that’s why we’re here. I think we’re all carving out our roles and developing our roles specifically. Obviously, from a George [Pickens] perspective, he’s got some unique talent, and we just want that to show up extremely consistently.”

Alex Highsmith

Coach Tomlin was asked about Jason Gilden going into the Steelers Hall of Honor and joining the Steelers at practice. In his response, Coach Tomlin mentioned Alex Highsmith.

“I don’t want to misrepresent the relationship – I didn’t coach Jason [Gildon]. But, obviously, outside linebacker in Pittsburgh – it’s what makes Pittsburgh ‘Blitzburgh.’ It’s generational. Young and new outside linebackers on this team understand the men that come before them and the standards that have been set. And this is a unique fraternity. It’s a beautiful thing to have guys like Jason Gildon come out here, or LaMarr Woodley last year and watch LaMarr Woodley develop a relationship with Alex Highsmith, a guy whose jersey number he’s been wearing. It’s just a unique thing to have continuity in that way, legacy, and standard-bearers.”

Jaylen Warren

Coach Tomlin was asked about Jaylen Warren saying he’s been working on his conditioning a lot this summer.

“I’d be reaching – I think conditioning and things of that nature get revealed the more we keep working and the more they have to put consecutive days together. But obviously, by the looks of it, he’s done some nice work.”

In a follow-up question, Coach Tomlin was asked about Warren being out with a kickoff return players and if the new kickoff role will affect the offense in any way.

“You know, we’ve got all cards on the table in regards to that, I think we’re all somewhat stepping into uncharted territory. So, it’s probably prudent to cast a big net in terms personnel, whether we are talking about return people, or blockers, or coverage people. We’re are just casting a big net, and I think that’s appropriate.”

DeMarvin Leal

Coach Tomlin was asked about seeing any difference in performance with pads on for DeMarvin Leal in year three.

“Exactly what you said. You cannot gauge a whole lot particularly as it pertains to defensive bigs until they are carrying their pads.”

In a follow-up question, Coach Tomlin was asked about Leal’s work ethic and conditioning.

“I don’t know that work ethic and conditioning has ever been an issue for him [Demarvin Leal] developing skill and maturity. Remember he was a young guy, third year when we drafted him. So he’s got continually better and there’s reason for us to expect that to continue.”

Mike Tomlin’s complete interview can be seen here:

Coach Mike Tomlin talks to the media after #SteelersCamp practice on Saturday, July 27: pic.twitter.com/RXKb9QpCnV

— Steelers Live (@SteelersLive) July 27, 2024