Steelers Training Camp: Recap Day 2

Mike Tomlin speaks again

Mike Tomlin spoke with the media for a few minutes after practice. Bottom line up front (BLUF):  Tomlin said, "I thought it was a good start."

First, the head coach commented on the increase in two-point conversion drills since it is "a significant space and a significant down." Today, the defense won the majority of those drills. He also denied that the two-point conversion drills he has been running are in response to the recent PAT rule change.

He also had a few comments on the scope of today's practice in terms of the new guys. "I just want to establish a good foundation on how we work," he said. Coach also indicated that camp is a time to evaluate new talent, but it is also a time for less experienced players to learn as well.

When asked about the prospect of the offense averaging thirty points per game, Tomlin replied in typical Tomlin fashion, "I just want to see one more (point) than our opponent, so whatever that entails... I don't worry about the style points."

Tomlin had no comment on Landry Jones, whom Neal Coolong reported was underwhelming at practice today (Is anyone surprised by this?) He did, however, indicate that Tyler Murphy and Devin Gardner will continue to get reps at both WR and QB.

Pads will be on on Wednesday. "Can't wait for that," said Tomlin with a wry smile.

LB Bud Dupree: Ready to go!

Steelers first round draft pick Bud Dupree spoke with the media, saying it was a good day so far. "Being able to compete is always a part of our mindset and wanting to get better each and every day." Dupree continues to learn from veterans like Jarvis Jones and James Harrison like he did during OTAs and minicamp. Though Dupree appeared rather subdued during most of the interview, he did become more animated when asked about his comfort level with Steelers defense. "Oh, yeah, definitely I feel comfortable with the defense." Throughout the offseason, Dupree has emphasized his commitment and dedication to learning the playbook.

OT Mike Adams: Not ready to go!

Yesterday news broke that Adams recently underwent back surgery and will be out for the next four weeks. Adams stated, "The goal is not to miss any games. I'm going to do everything I can to get back."  For now, he is on the physically unable to perform list, and disappointed he cannot hit the field with his teammates in Latrobe. Will his injury open the door for former practice squad players such as Alejandro Villanueva? As Kelvin Beachum's backup at left tackle, Adams was not an essential piece of the offensive line, but news of his injury and timeline for recovery could change the landscape when it comes to the offensive line.

Also on injury watch, Senquez Golson is suffering from a shoulder injury, an unfortunate circumstance that was also revealed yesterday. Is his spot on the roster in danger? As a second-round draft pick, probably not, but there are a lot of unknowns regarding the cornerback's health and timeline for recovery.  Durability concerns were listed on his draft report.

LB James Harrison: Ready to go, but hasn't gotten going just yet!

Per Chris Adamski on Twitter, Mike Tomlin held Harrison out of practice with the explanation: "I'm gonna protect him from himself. He and will Allen are too old to be working right now."  Well, Harrison isn't too old to play Danney Ball with a weighted vest and do pushups with Maurkice Pouncey on his back, but it is true that at his age (37), better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to injuries and unexpected mishaps. Personally, I'd rather see Harrison held out of training camp than on the sidelines during the games. I'm still predicting he'll see more playing time than the 25 snaps-per-game that Porter has indicated.