Just like that, Steelers OTAs are in the rearview mirror.
The final practice of OTAs took place today at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex with most of the roster in attendance. While those such as T.J. Watt and DK Metcalf didn't participate in OTAs, one of the great values of these sessions is getting new, younger players acclimated to the way the Steelers do things in a full team setting.
Cam Heyward did a good job of tying a bow on this year's OTAs:
"I think it's a good start," Heyward said. "Guys were running around, trying to get in good shape, crafting our technique. It's great for our young guys to learn how we practice, and get around some of the other vets and grow in that way. But, it's just the start."
"Very receptive," Heyward continued, regarding how much Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black soaked in throughout OTAs. "I just try to let them know about little things they can work on. I think it's just trying to get consistent with the work. We understand it's a new team and different things are going on. But they've got good heads on their shoulders. They're trying. They're trying to listen. That's all you can ask for a young guy."
The younger players have done plenty of work throughout OTAs. The rookies have spent extra time on the field, working through plays that weren't included during practice. They've been asking questions. And, especially throughout individual drills, veteran players such as Heyward would be right there coaching up the younger guys on even the most minute details.
That work may end up paying off earlier for them than it did for the likes of Heyward when he was coming out of college. When Heyward was drafted, the Steelers were coming off a Super Bowl appearance, the defensive line was already stacked and there was a first-rounder in Ziggy Hood already waiting in the wings.
The Steelers don't have that kind of depth now. Harmon could see a good amount of playing time right away. Kaleb Johnson could take on a healthy dose of touches at running back. There will be opportunities right away.
"It's a different situation," Heyward said. "You don't know what's going to happen. I think the main thing we just preach right now is good competition and crafting every day. You're going to have your opportunities. ... It's up for grabs right now. Each man has an opportunity. It's just about who's willing to seize that opportunity."
OTAs help lay the groundwork for seizing opportunities. These couple of weeks will help make mandatory minicamp feel much less intimidating. That's not only when the entire team is required to attend, but also when the playbooks are officially installed. They'll be installed again at training camp, but every bit of information prior to then helps.
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THE ASYLUM
Chris Halicke
5:51 pm - 06.05.2025South SideFoundation laid for opportunity following OTAs
Just like that, Steelers OTAs are in the rearview mirror.
The final practice of OTAs took place today at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex with most of the roster in attendance. While those such as T.J. Watt and DK Metcalf didn't participate in OTAs, one of the great values of these sessions is getting new, younger players acclimated to the way the Steelers do things in a full team setting.
Cam Heyward did a good job of tying a bow on this year's OTAs:
"I think it's a good start," Heyward said. "Guys were running around, trying to get in good shape, crafting our technique. It's great for our young guys to learn how we practice, and get around some of the other vets and grow in that way. But, it's just the start."
"Very receptive," Heyward continued, regarding how much Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black soaked in throughout OTAs. "I just try to let them know about little things they can work on. I think it's just trying to get consistent with the work. We understand it's a new team and different things are going on. But they've got good heads on their shoulders. They're trying. They're trying to listen. That's all you can ask for a young guy."
The younger players have done plenty of work throughout OTAs. The rookies have spent extra time on the field, working through plays that weren't included during practice. They've been asking questions. And, especially throughout individual drills, veteran players such as Heyward would be right there coaching up the younger guys on even the most minute details.
That work may end up paying off earlier for them than it did for the likes of Heyward when he was coming out of college. When Heyward was drafted, the Steelers were coming off a Super Bowl appearance, the defensive line was already stacked and there was a first-rounder in Ziggy Hood already waiting in the wings.
The Steelers don't have that kind of depth now. Harmon could see a good amount of playing time right away. Kaleb Johnson could take on a healthy dose of touches at running back. There will be opportunities right away.
"It's a different situation," Heyward said. "You don't know what's going to happen. I think the main thing we just preach right now is good competition and crafting every day. You're going to have your opportunities. ... It's up for grabs right now. Each man has an opportunity. It's just about who's willing to seize that opportunity."
OTAs help lay the groundwork for seizing opportunities. These couple of weeks will help make mandatory minicamp feel much less intimidating. That's not only when the entire team is required to attend, but also when the playbooks are officially installed. They'll be installed again at training camp, but every bit of information prior to then helps.
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits! Make your voice heard on the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates, and hear right back from tens of thousands of fellow Pittsburgh sports fans worldwide! Plus, access all our premium content, including Dejan Kovacevic columns, Friday Insider, daily Live Qs with the staff, more! And yeah, that's right, no ads at all!
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