Steelers training camp observations: Will Howard bounces back, offense comes alive, and running backs shine on day two of pads
The Pittsburgh Steelers were looking to build off their first day of pads on Monday, a day that was dominated by the defense. The offense took the reins on Tuesday, with Will Howard and multiple skill players showing out.
The Pittsburgh Steelers wrapped day 2 of padded practices at training camp in Latrobe, and the quarterback position delivered the headlines, and this time it had nothing to do with Aaron Rodgers calling out ESPN or the Steelers P.R. team releasing statements on his behalf. Rodgers and Will Howard put on an impressive performance during team periods, while the offensive line and running backs flashed in key moments throughout the session. Here are the biggest observations from the day.
Key remaining dates in Steelers training camp
- Saturday night practice (August 8).
- First preseason game (August 13).
- Camp Breaks (August 17).
Offensive line wins highlight 1-on-1 periods
The practice really got going with 1-on-1 periods splitting the offensive line and defensive line on one side of the field, with 7-on-7 work running simultaneously on the other. The right tackle spot stood out early. Max Iheanachor, the Steelers’ first-round pick from this year’s draft, looked outstanding and posted strong reps against defensive end Jack Sawyer. On top of that, Dylan Cook held his own at right tackle against T.J. Watt, deploying a snatch-trap technique that neutralized one of the best pass rushers in the league.
For an offensive line group that still has questions to answer, those were the kind of reps Pittsburgh needed to see in the early stages of camp.
Rodgers and Howard take over in team periods
Over on the 7-on-7 side, the offense got off to a slow start before Rodgers found DK Metcalf, and from there, things opened up for the rest of the day.
Yesterday belonged to Drew Allar, who made the viral throw over the middle that made the rounds on social media. Howard struggled in team drills and red-zone work on Monday, but today, it was Howard’s turn. The Steelers quarterback put on an outstanding red zone performance, connecting on a couple of touchdown throws, including a seed to the back pylon that ended the drill.
Rodgers matched that energy during the 2-minute drill, marching the offense down the field with precision. A great throw to tight end Pat Freiermuth up the seam got things rolling before a pass to Metcalf in full stride showed off the receiver’s explosiveness. Rodgers capped the drive with a touchdown to wide receiver Roman Wilson.
Running backs make their presence felt
When the Steelers moved into the red zone and 2-minute drill work during 11-on-11 periods, the running backs took over. Rico Dowdle ripped off several strong runs up the middle, while Jaylen Warren flashed his versatility with a great one-handed catch during the 2-minute drill.
Beyond the starters, Eli Heidenreich and Kaleb Johnson made the most of their opportunities while the first-team offense rotated elsewhere. It was a productive day across the board for the position group, and the depth at running back could become a real storyline as camp progresses.
