Following on the heels of the Friday Night Lights practice at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium, Mike Tomlin gave many of his Pittsburgh Steelers veterans the day off Saturday.
Taking a seat for the workout under the sun at Saint Vincent College were quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith on offense, and inside linebacker Patrick Queen on defense. Cameron Heyward was rested for a second day in a row, as was T.J. Watt.
Players held out because of minor injuries included Calvin Austin III, Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton,
Tomlin thought the players that did practice benefited from the reps they received.
“It’s good to challenge them in this way and come back out and have to perform today on a short turnaround,” he said.
Left tackle Broderick Jones returned to a semi-regular practice routine for the first time since sustaining a lower-body injury last week. He split reps during team sessions with Dylan Cook.
Calvin Anderson, who was injured Friday night, did not practice, forcing guard Spencer Anderson to shift to tackle when the second team was on the field. Anderson continued to start at left guard in place of Isaac Seumalo, who was limited to individual work.
With several left tackle candidates hurting, Tomlin hesitated to give reps to Troy Fautanu on that side. Fautanu played left tackle in college.
“He doesn’t have enough experience,” Tomlin said. “Others will be called upon before Troy will.”
Tomlin said it’s possible the Steelers could get back several injured players Sunday when the players wear pads again before getting a day off Monday. The only injuries that Tomlin considered more serious than day-to-day issues were Anderson and cornerback Cory Trice, who injured his hamstring Friday night.
Also nearing a return are fullback/tight end D.J. Thomas-Jones, defensive tackle Esezi Otomewo and interior offensive lineman Ryan McCollum.
“We’ll march it day by day and keep working those that are available to us,” Tomlin said.
