2022 Steelers Training Camp - Practice Day 17 Report

With only two days remaining in this year's training camp, the Pittsburgh Steelers took to the field at St. Vincent College for their 17th practice session.

Prior to the beginning of this afternoon's session, changes were made to the Steelers' roster, which consisted of four players waived, two players placed on injured reserve, and a new offensive lineman signed.

Today's session saw the following camp storylines: a rookie receiver "discombobulating" an opposing defender; a rookie quarterback that continues to get better; and a potential transition for a defensive back.

So Steelers fans, let's go!

Camp Injury/Participation Report:

Out:

FB Derek Watt (shoulder)

LB Marcus Allen (lower body)

RB Master Teague III (lower body)*

OL Kevin Dotson (ankle)*

LB Alex Highsmith (oblique)

TE Zach Gentry (undisclosed)

DL Montravius Adams (ankle)

TE Kevin Rader (Undisclosed)*

WR Calvin Austin III (lower body)

*denotes injured during practice session

Prior to today's session, Austin III was seen in a walking boot. During practice, he was seen practicing on the sidelines without his boot, according to Steelers beat writer Dale Lolley.

The biggest story involved running back Master Teague III, who was carted off during team drills with what was reported as a lower body injury.

The injury bug hit offensive lineman Kevin Dotson again, who was seen getting his right ankle checked following his one-on-one rep against defensive lineman Khalil Davis.

(Photo credit: @FarabaughFB)

Camp Notes And Highlights:

George Pickens Confusing Defenders

One of the highlights of the day involved this year's training camp MVP, rookie George Pickens. To add to his list of camp highlights, he beat All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in one of two reps during one-on-ones. Steelers receiver coach Frisman Jackson described Fitzpatrick as being "discombobulated" when facing the talented rookie.

Kenny Pickett Graduates

Rookie Kenny Pickett has come a long way in his development since week one of training camp. In today's session, he played primarily with the second-team offense. During the "Seven shots" drill, he went 2-for-2 (touchdown passes to Anthony McFarland and Connor Heyward). During the two-minute drill, Pickett had his first ever rep with the first-team offense. He accounted for completions to receiver Chase Claypool, running back Najee Harris, and a 27-yard completion to Pickens. Despite not scoring, the fact that he has progressed to first-team reps speaks volumes about his development.

Pressley Harvin III Showing Off His Leg

Second-year kicker made quite an impression today, as he recorded three kicks of 60+ yards, according to Steelers/Pitt analyst Nick Farabaugh. Several analysts described him putting on a show as he showed just how strong his legs can be.

Terrell Edmunds At Dimebacker?

Is defensive back Terrell Edmunds being groomed as a dimebacker? According to Lolley's report, Edmunds took reps in the "backs on backers" drill. Yesterday, Lolley reported how they were running more dime packages while rotating both linebackers, Devin Bush Jr. and Robert Spillane. Perhaps this is an indication that the team will feature Edmunds.

Pat Freiermuth In Mid-Season

Since coming back from injury, second-year tight end Pat Freiermuth has put together a string of strong performances at camp. During today's practice, he scored two touchdowns from quarterback Mitch Trubisky during the "seven shots" drill and had two receptions during the team drills. By all accounts, his route running has upgraded since last season and has been productive since returning from injury.