Rainstorms almost put a damper on Day 3 of Steelers Camp. When it was all said and done, the team took their practice to the turf field at St. Vincent College. Even with the rain coming down hard during the late portions of the session, the team stood strong and carried on.
On a day where four new former Steelers were inducted into their Hall of Honor, here were today's storylines: a promoted defensive back having a strong day, a rookie pass rusher using a new move, and a running back who continues to make splash plays.
So Steelers fans, let's go!
Injury Report
All players, including the three Steelers who left yesterday's session early with heat-related issues, were accounted for in this afternoon's session. As expected, All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick did not participate in the 11-on-11 team drill.
Day 3 Camp Highlights and Top Performers
Defensive Wins "Seven Shots"
After being embarrassed by the offense yesterday, the defense bounced back and won "seven shots", 5-2. Tight ends Zack Gentry and Connor Heyward accounted for the only two touchdowns for the offense.
Elijah Riley Shows His Versatility
After back-to-back strong showings in camp, defensive back Elijah Riley took first-team reps at slot cornerback and did not disappoint. During the "seven shots" drill, he accounted for a pass breakup against receiver George Pickens. In the following sequence, he forced the ball to be tipped by veteran Cam Heyward by coming off a blitz. As it stands, he has been one of the top performers in week one.
Herbig Unvails New Move
Linebacker Nick Herbig has had a heck of a week, unfortunately at the expense of tackle Le'Raven Clark. During the 11-on-11 team drill, Herbig executed the "ghost" move, which he learned from All-Pro pass rusher T.J. Watt.
Anthony McFarland Jr. Make A Huge Play
If there is one player whose stock has skyrocketed this week, that would be running back Anthony McFarland Jr. Each day, he adds a new dimension to his skillset. During the 11-on-11s, McFarland Jr. broke another big play, a 65-yard touchdown. He also accounted for a 20-yard gain with backup running back Jaylen Warren as his lead blocker.
Pickett's First Interception Of Training Camp
So far, quarterback Kenny Pickett has been near-flawless during the first few days. Yet, during the team drills, Pickett accounted for his first interception after a pass intended for rookie tight end Darnell Washington bounced off his hands and into the hands of defensive back Damontae Kazee. Washington himself had a rough day overall.
Hakeem Butler Makes His Presence Felt
In what may have been the best play of the day, receiver Hakeem Butler took what should have been an interception by cornerback Luq Barcoo and turned it into a touchdown. During his days with Iowa State, Butler was known for making plays of this nature using his 6'5 frame. The way he made this play happen despite the ball being underthrown tells you everything you need to know about him.