Mike Tomlin is anxiously awaiting the Steelers first padded practice Sunday

Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media after the Steelers second training camp practice of 2019 on Saturday. With the Steelers first practice in pads scheduled for Sunday, Coach Tomlin is ready to see the Steelers players bring the intensity associated with football in full gear.

“Obviously tomorrow is a significant day for us as we put pads on and continue this process. It’s time for that.”

Per the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, teams are not permitted to conduct a padded practice until the fourth day of training camp. After that point, teams are only allowed one padded practice per day which is limited to three hours. Teams are permitted a second practice merely as a walk-through with both practices totaling no more than a combined four hours.

With the time players can spend in pads at a premium, Coach Tomlin is eager to see how new players to the team handle the more demanding conditions.

“I’m excited about getting these guys in pads tomorrow, particularly guys that are new to us and are new to professional football, to see how they acclimate themselves to this environment in more football-like conditions”

While training camp has already concluded the third day, the team has yet to practice in true football fashion. With Sunday being the first day in full gear, Coach Tomlin‘s remarks following practice will be the most telling thus far in Latrobe.

Mike Tomlin’s full session with the media from Saturday can be seen here: