2025 Steelers Camp Recap - Friday Night Lights

When the lights dim, everything intensifies.

Day 8 of Steelers Training Camp was no ordinary day—it marked the team's annual Friday Night Lights event, a cherished occasion celebrating food, family, fans, and friends.

As in previous years, the team traveled by bus to Latrobe Memorial Stadium, where they were welcomed by a record crowd of 13,653, eager to receive autographs from their favorite players.

It was another successful 'Friday Night Lights' event so, Steelers fans, let's go!

Injury Report

Per Nick Farabaugh of Penn Live, cornerback Joey Porter Jr. was spotted in sweats ahead of Friday's practice, suggesting he would not take part in the evening’s session. As of now, there has been no confirmation regarding any injury-related absence.

Following Friday evening's practice, head coach Mike Tomlin reported that cornerback Cory Trice Jr. suffered a hamstring injury during the session. Further details regarding the extent of the injury have yet to be released.

Day 8 Friday Night Lights Notes -

Harrison Continues His Streak Over Johnson

Rookie running back Kaleb Johnson put in extra work after Wednesday’s practice, focusing on improving his pass protection. But on Thursday evening, the struggle continued. Malik Harrison beat Johnson once again in the “Backs on Backers” drill, pushing his record to 4–0 in their head-to-head battles. Johnson’s commitment is evident, but he’ll need more reps to close the gap.

Johnson Gets His Redemption

Despite a setback against Harrison, Johnson displayed impressive resilience, responding with authority in his next matchup. He stood up linebacker Mark Robinson on consecutive reps, earning visible approval from running backs coach Eddie Faulkner.

Washington Beats Everyone

If there were a crown for one-on-one supremacy, tight end Darnell Washington would be wearing it. The tight end put on a clinic Friday evening, convincingly beating every defender he lined up against and further solidifying his dominance in this arena.

More Training Camp Fights

Thursday’s training camp session was marked by heightened intensity, resembling a WrestleMania atmosphere due to multiple altercations. On Day 8, tensions flared again during the “Backs on Backers” drill, resulting in another scuffle.

Rodgers-Metcalf Connection Stays Hot

After a rocky start in Week 1, Aaron Rodgers and D.K. Metcalf have found their rhythm. The duo continued to build momentum during team sessions, showcasing improved timing and execution.

Rotation At Left Tackle

Broderick Jones began the session taking reps at first-team left tackle, but the depth chart may be more fluid than expected. As team drills continued, both Dylan Cook and seasoned lineman Calvin Anderson saw time with the first unit. Whether Jones is still working back to full health or simply facing stiff competition, the left tackle spot is clearly up for grabs.

On a side note: it didn't help his cause losing three straight reps against Alex Highsmith in one-on-ones.