On the eve before the Steelers annual 'Friday Night Lights' practice, the team was out in full force on the field at St. Vincent College. After a physical practice session yesterday, those who were able to practice put in a solid showing as the team reaches closer to their first preseason game.
Today's camp storylines: a camp rivalry heating up, a rookie tight end who continues to impress, and a receiver that struggled with drops
So Steelers fans, let's go!
Injury Report
The biggest story in this regard was the absence of safeties in today's session. According to reports, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Keeanu Neal, and Damontae Kazee were either absent or did not participate due to various reasons. Defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal, who was carted off with an ankle injury in yesterday's session, did not participate as he was seen with a wrap on it. Receiver Diontae Johnson, as well, did not partake in today's session.
Day 7 Highlights And Top Performers
Pickens vs. Porter Jr. Rivalry
Receiver George Pickens went viral on Day 5 after his spectacular catch on rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Since then, both he and Porter Jr. have developed a competitive camp rivalry. In today's edition, Pickens got the better of Porter Jr. earlier on. To make matters worse, during team drills, Porter Jr. had what looked like a pass breakup, only for it to bounce into the hands of Pickens.
Joey Porter Jr. Is Resilient
During this year's camp, rookie Porter Jr. has had his share of successes and failures, all of which are part of the process. One thing that cannot be denied is his willingness to compete against everyone. After losing his battle with Pickens, he redeems himself with an interception over 6'5 receiver Hakeem Butler. Then, during the 2-minute drill, he records a diving interception on quarterback Kenny Pickett.
A Day To Forget For Hakeem Butler
In addition to being on the receiving end of an interception, Butler accounted for three dropped passes. If Butler wants a chance at the roster, he will need to elevate his game.
Tre Norwood Impresses in "Seven Shots"
Tre Norwood has not been mentioned much in the past two weeks, but during the "seven shots" drill, he recorded two pass deflections as the defense came out on top by a score of 5-2.
Darnell Washington Can Do It All
Whether he is clearing the path for running backs or making catches over everyone, rookie tight end Darnell Washington showed everyone today why he is going to be a problem for opposing defenses. Simply put, he has been one of the top overall performers of Week 2.