Much to Unpack in the Wake of Steelers’ Summer Vacation
They haven’t yet shown us who they are. But they’ve delivered glimpses of who they might be individually and collectively.
They practiced for the final time at Saint Vincent College on Wednesday, and the Steelers seemingly did so with equal parts appreciation and relief.
Appreciation for what they had accomplished throughout what is a significant part of the team-building process.
And relief that they were returning to life as grown men after a mandatory stint living like college students.
In the event you have been in orbit or in a coma since July 24, here’s what you missed:
- The slow but steady ascent of center Zach Frazier. He’s still second on the depth chart, but the second-round pick from West Virginia’s performance in the preseason opener against Houston amounted to a coming-out party. His time is coming sooner rather than later.
- The professionalism and leadership of inside linebacker Elandon Roberts. He sent a relentless tone of physicality and stirred the pot repeatedly in an effort to turn up the temperature when necessary. Roberts is more than a player, he’s a presence.
- The impact of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, which went far beyond schematics or formations of choice. Smith has brought with him open lines of communication with the defense as well as the offense, and a resume and demeanor that inspires confidence.
- The surprisingly polished and productive performance of wide receiver Van Jefferson. He’s a fifth-year pro and a former Super Bowl champion with the Rams who caught just 20 passes while splitting last season with the Rams and Falcons. His acquisition didn’t generate many headlines but his performance in camp was attention getting almost on a daily basis. He’ll catch a lot more than 20 balls this fall.
- The unfortunate ankle injury that sidelined wide receiver Roman Wilson on the first day in pads. The third-round pick was perceived as a potential impact contributor at a position of need, and might yet be that eventually. But all the valuable practice time he’s missed is going to be a challenge to overcome.
- Fullback Jack Colletto emerging as the camp “sleeper.” Smith clearly appreciates the presence of a fullback in his offense. If Colletto can be that guy and also excel on special teams, he might well eventually become the most unanticipated name on the 53-man roster.
- The maturation of defensive tackle Keeanu Benton. He’s more than ready to make that second-year jump head coach Mike Tomlin always counts upon. Benton is a rising star up front.
- The intriguing potential of tight end Pat Freiermuth. The changes at offensive coordinator and quarterback may impact Freiermuth more than any other player. He’s always had the talent. Now, his time apparently has arrived.
- The maniacal work ethic of running back Najee Harris. A few days ago he ran post-practice sprints as Smith and then Tomlin were conducting press conferences. When Tomlin finished he offered Harris a ride to the locker room on a golf cart. Harris declined. “I got a couple more sprints,” he explained. It was as representative a moment as any in a camp in which Harris always remained engaged and on the grind.
- The career resurrection of defensive end DeMarvin Leal. He was a healthy scratch down the stretch last season and faced a make-or-break camp because of his regression after a promising rookie campaign. Amends have been made and Leal once again looks like part of the solution, as opposed to part of the problem, on the defensive line and perhaps at outside linebacker. His best position might be “Disruptor.” That would be enough.
Related: Understanding When to Get Fighting Mad Is an Important Part of the Steelers’ Summer Plan
If you missed all of that, you might be in need of some perspective right about now.
Quarterback Russell Wilson provided that before departing Saint Vincent College.
“I think we have a great chance,” Wilson insisted. “But my dad used to always say potential doesn’t mean anything, you haven’t done it yet. We gotta do it. And that’s the great part about this game, you get to go out there and play every day that you can be your best and love it, embrace the moments, and that’s what we’re gonna do.”
That about sums it up.
Mike Prisuta is the sports anchor/reporter for Randy Baumann and the DVE Morning Show. He’s also the host of the Steelers Radio Network Pregame Show and the color analyst for Robert Morris University men’s hockey broadcasts.