On Monday, the Pittsburgh Steelers strapped on the pads for what was the penultimate practice of training camp.
Coming off a disappointing opening to the preseason, the team needed a jolt of energy as they head into a Week 2 matchup with the Buffalo Bills.
And that energy was indeed on display during practice, with these being the biggest takeaways from Day 15:
Fields-Wilson Have Big Days
Justin Fields made his Steelers debut on Friday night, but it was quick work as he attempted only six passes and was out before the end of the first quarter. He looked comfortable and in rhythm on Friday and that carried over on Monday, where he made multiple big throws to Calvin Austin III and Van Jefferson.
It just so happens that Russell Wilson also looked sharp, showing he still has the arm strength and velocity to push the ball into tight windows and the touch to layer the ball over the top.
The pecking order is clear. Wilson is the starter and with Monday being his first full participation in a padded practice, that's not going to change until game time. Fields will have to level up on his: "In Stadium" efforts to push Wilson, who is slated to make his Steelers debut on Saturday, as Mike Tomlin told the media in his postgame press conference after the Houston Texans loss.
Trice Running With His Opportunities
With Donte Jackson not practicing twice in as many days, Cory Trice Jr. has been taking first-team reps in the team period of practice, looking to build off a strong debut in his own right.
It's still a tad early, but Trice not only projects to make the roster but could be a significant contributor, something that was up in the air following last year's injury in camp.
Battle For Starting Slot CB Renews
Beanie Bishop has been undeniable through three weeks of camp, even earning the starting role on Pittsburgh's initial depth chart release . A rookie UDFA from WVU, that is no small feat.
But Coach Tomlin both applauded Bishop, and hedged against his rise, noting the suspension of Cam Sutton and injury to Grayland Arnold as part of his reasoning for naming Bishop the starter.
With Arnold seemingly returning to full health, he was all over the ball on Monday, which was especially notable after taking first-team reps in back-to-back practices .
Injury Update (Via Alex Kozora on X)
- OT Troy Fautanu was out with a knee but was seen walking downstairs with no limp and a brace
- EDGE Alex Highsmith is still out with a groin injury but did do some light jogging
- WR Tarik Black still out with a hamstring
- DT Keeanu Benton and DL DeMarvin Leal were both seen not going through individual drills
- CBs Kalon Barnes and Donte Jackson also weren't seen with the CBs at start of practice
- WR Roman Wilson does light work on the side with no brace or wrap on his ankle (Farabaugh)
Related: Pittsburgh Steelers' updated 53-man roster projection following Week 1 of the 2024 preseason
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