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It's time to go to school.
The Steelers take the practice field for the third time Monday, the first with pads, and Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is not just excited, but cognizant of the fact real football is played in pads.
"Checking in here and getting on the grass is one thing, but football is a game that is played in pads," he told the team's web site. "Monday is the first day of school."
It's the first look the team will get at an anxiously awaited draft class, including outside linebacker Jarvis Jones. While Jason Worilds has been incorporated as the likely starter at right outside linebacker, the utilization of Jones will be one of the underlying stories of the 2013 season.
The Steelers have 72 sacks the past two seasons, putting them in the middle of the league. While Jones may not be able to contribute on three downs this season, the Steelers will likely incorporate him in situations, and look to get him after the passer.
The 12:55 p.m. practice is the last the team will have until Wednesday, leading into their first preseason game against the New York Giants Saturday, Aug. 10.
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- LaRod Stephens-Howling brings explosion, ball security to Steelers offense and special teams
- Breaking down Steelers OLB Jason Worilds
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