PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Along with rookie tackle Max Iheanachor returning to practice and defensive back Jalen Ramsey practicing for the first time this preseason, the Steelers had both of its starting receivers return to practice on Monday.
DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman returned to full work at the UPMC Rooney complex on the South Side.
Metcalf didn’t seem to concerned about the undisclosed injury that kept him out of practice the last couple of weeks. He didn’t play in either of the first two preseason games, but said he had no concerns about the season opener in a few weeks. He’ll be ready to play and said they’ll have three weeks of work together and that will be enough, even with the new coaching staff.
Pittman says it’s not ideal to miss time, his injury also undisclosed, but said he’s played enough football that he will be ready to go when it’s time.
“Really, just mentally being on top of things, because we haven’t gotten the physical reps,” Pittman said of being ready.
Both seemed very confident they will be ready for the start of the regular season. There is no doubt either are the top two receivers on the team, their absence has allowed rookie Germie Bernard, Roman Wilson, Ben Skowronek, Kaden Wetjen and Max Hurleman to get more opportunities.
Jalen Ramsey says pay Joey Porter, Junior
No roster decisions
Asked specifically about the report the Steelers will keep four quarterbacks, head coach Mike McCarthy said before practice Monday.
“I haven't been part of any conversations where the 53 has been selected already,” McCarthy said. “So, any position, any realm, we definitely have ideas. I think it's evident we're trying to play the players in many different combinations.”
Broderick Jones status
The fourth-year tackle played just over 50 snaps on Friday, a high for the preseason and most since November 16th of last year.
“He's getting better,” McCarthy said. “His position flex is important to my evaluation of him. He'll play both right tackle and some left tackle come Thursday tonight. So, he’s just got to clean up some things. So, it's never the same when you have staff changes. So, as far as how you play the quarterback position or how you play other positions and he just got to keep working. So, he's definitely making progress.”
1st round pick Max Iheanachor back to full practice
OLB Alex Highsmith on Jalen Ramsey’s return to practice
“His leadership and the way he plays the game. He plays with such intensity, such ferocity. He came out here and had a big hit today. It was like welcome back ‘5’.
Takeaway quotes/notes from the Steelers penultimate preseason practice
Takeaway quotes/notes from the Steelers penultimate preseason practice
