2025 Steelers Camp Recap - Day 12 Notes

Despite a growing list of injuries, the Pittsburgh Steelers conducted their 12th day of training camp on the field at St. Vincent College

So, Steelers fans, let's go!

---

Injury Report

Following Tuesday’s practice, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that rookie quarterback Will Howard sustained a hand injury during a team session. Subsequent evaluations revealed a fracture in a small bone in his hand.

Howard is expected to be sidelined for a minimum of three weeks, effectively ruling him out for the entirety of the preseason.

Despite a recent knee injury sustained during team drills, tight end Jonnu Smith was a full participant in Wednesday’s training camp session at St. Vincent College, offering a promising sign for the Pittsburgh Steelers as injuries continue to mount.

Rookie cornerback Donte Kent also showed encouraging progress, appearing without his walking boot for the first time since Week 2 of camp. While Kent’s return to action has yet to be scheduled, his presence on the sidelines marked a positive development in his recovery.

Several players, however, remained sidelined due to various injuries. The list of non-participants included cornerback Cory Trice Jr. (hamstring), linebacker Alex Highsmith (groin), wide receiver Calvin Austin III (undisclosed), offensive tackle Calvin Anderson (leg), cornerback Jalen Ramsey (undisclosed), rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon (undisclosed), linebacker Cole Holcomb (undisclosed), and cornerback Darius Slay (undisclosed).

---

Day 13 Camp Notes -

Ugly Scene At Training Camp

According to multiple reports, a confrontation occurred during team drills involving rookie running back Kaleb Johnson and defensive tackle Esezi Otomewo. The incident began when Otomewo delivered an excessively aggressive hit on Johnson during a running play. In response, members of the Steelers' offensive line intervened to defend Johnson, leading to a physical altercation in which punches were exchanged.

Head coach Mike Tomlin has consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and avoiding unnecessary violence during practices. However, despite his efforts, such incidents continue to arise.

---

The Metcalf-Rodgers Connection Continue To Click

After a rocky start in Week 1 of training camp, wide receiver D.K. Metcalf and quarterback Aaron Rodgers appear to be finding their rhythm. The pair struggled early to establish timing and cohesion, but since Week 2, their connection has steadily improved, producing several explosive plays during drills.

That momentum continued Wednesday, as Rodgers and Metcalf each accounted for touchdowns during the “Seven Shots” red zone period and again in full-team sessions. Their growing chemistry is becoming a highlight of camp.

---

Roman Wilson Continue To Cook

Wide receiver Roman Wilson is rapidly emerging as one of the most consistent performers in training camp. With each passing day, his stock continues to climb, thanks in large part to a developing connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Over the past several sessions, Wilson has showcased his reliability and precision, turning heads with his route-running and timing. On Day 12, he was targeted multiple times during team drills, further solidifying his role as a trusted option in the Steelers’ passing attack.

---

Thornhill Continues Ball-Hawking Surge in Camp

Safety Juan Thornhill has been making his presence felt in recent training camp sessions, consistently finding himself around the ball—and taking it away. His knack for interceptions continued Wednesday, as he picked off quarterback Aaron Rodgers during 7-on-7 drills.

Thornhill’s ball-hawking instincts and sharp anticipation have become a recurring theme in camp.