Even the sweltering heat and humidity did not stop the Pittsburgh Steelers from taking the field at St. Vincent College for their second training camp session. With padded practice set to begin next week, today's session was as competitive as the first, with several individual standouts.
Today's training camp storylines include a connection that continues to develop, the "seven shots" drill is back, and a QB1 who continues to heat up.
So Steelers fans, let's go!
Injury Report
Even with the heat yesterday, everyone was accounted for. This noted, receiver Diontae Johnson, was seen hobbling and grabbing his knee before leaving on a cart. Tight end Connor Heyward was observed limping towards the end of practice, and defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal was unable to finish practice due to similar heat-related issues, as confirmed by head coach Mike Tomlin after the session.
Day 2 Camp Highlights and Top Performers
Offense Dominates In "Seven Shots"
Day 2 marked the first day of the "Seven shots" drill. In today's session, the offense came out on top by a convincing score of 5-2. The scorers were receiver Allen Robinson II, RB Anthony McFarland Jr., quarterback Mitch Trubisky, receiver Gunner Olszewski, and receiver Dez Fitzpatrick.
Mitch Trubisky Had A Strong Day
Speaking of Mitch Trubisky, he was one of the standouts in the "seven shots" drill, accounting for two touchdown passes and a touchdown run. Though he was silent yesterday, he made up for it today.
Mark Robinson Had Rough Day
What should be noted about Mark Robinson is that he has not had many years at the linebacker position. Today, his inexperience was on display, first during one of the drills with linebacker coach Aaron Curry present and in the 'seven shots' drill, where a miscommunication resulted in a touchdown for running back Anthony McFarland Jr.
Anthony McFarland Jr. Stock Is Rising
After a strong first day, Anthony McFarland Jr. continued his impressive play in today's session. During "seven shots", he accounted for the offense's third touchdown and was once again one of the last players on the field after the session was over. If he continues to string together strong performances, he could potentially become a big part of the offense this season.
Broderick Jones Taking Over At First-Team Tackle?
Well, things did not go well for Dan Moore Jr. in today's session. During the team drills, Moore Jr. surrendered what should have been two sacks against Alex Highsmith on consecutive plays. Jones would eventually take a first-team snap during 11-on-11. It will be interesting to see going forward if he takes over at first-team left tackle.
Kenny Pickett is HOT!
At this point, the top performer at camp after two days has been Kenny Pickett. The evolution from a player who struggled in camp last year to the poised and confident quarterback he is now is incredible. Based on the reports, Pickett is primed to do big things this upcoming season.
Pickett To Robinson II Duo?
As much as fans enjoyed the Pickett-Pickens connection, the one that should not be ignored is Pickens-Robinson, as was displayed in today's session. The chemistry between these two is for real. Robinson II, in his own right, had a strong day in Johnson's absence.