LATROBE – The Pittsburgh Steelers put the pads on for the first time on Monday, taking another step toward their first game action of the year when they host the Green Bay Packers next Thursday. As always, there is much to discuss – including a breakout day from an under-the-radar quarterback, another big throw from Drew Allar, and Jaquan Brisker’s best day. Let’s get into it.
Doneiko Slaughter throws his name in the mix
While Asante Samuel has been the story of training camp, No. 19 Doneiko Slaughter made several plays to stand out on Monday.
For starters, he picked off Will Howard on a deep throw to the left sideline. He also broke up a deep pass from Will Howard to Max Hurleman. With such a deep cornerback room, it’s understandable that the young Slaughter isn’t a name many were focused on, but he’s becoming a name to circle once preseason play begins for the Steelers next week.
Drew Allar throws another splash touchdown
It was a good day for Allar, who made the splash throw of the day – a 55-yard touchdown to Cole Burgess during seven-on-sevens. He also ripped a completion over the middle to Max Hurleman on fourth down during team period. Allar has played very well through the first week of practices – better than anticipated. Especially when the overwhelming expectation was how raw he would be as a talent. However, he’s looking more comfortable with each practice and continuing to impress.
Aaron Rodgers is dialed in
At this time last year, the offense was rocky, as was Rodgers. Through nearly a full week of practices, he has been absolutely dialed in. He and DK Metcalf connected on a total of four passes. Metcalf made an incredible one-handed grab over Jamel Dean. He also went up and over Dean for a nice chunk play before Rodgers fit a seed to the star receiver down the sideline for a big gain. Additionally, his connection with Pat Freiermuth has been one to watch. The two connected for a touchdown on Saturday, and Rodgers found No. 88 for another big gain during team period.
Jaquan Brisker has best day of camp
The first-year Steeler nearly made a big splash play. He read a pass from Rodgers and had the pass hit him in the stomach, nearly picking it off. Later on in team period, he came untouched off the edge for what would have been a sack in-game. Brisker’s versatility is what makes him such a good piece to have on the defense. He continues to flash.
Other notes
- Brandin Echols picked off a pass that looked like a miscommunication between Rodgers and Roman Wilson. Couldn’t tell if he trapped it on the grass, but it appears it was ruled a pick
- Asante Samuel continued his streak of impressive pass breakups, batting down a pass intended for Michael Pittman
- Will Howard connected with Brandon Smith on the left side of the field off a play action pass in team period
- Esezi Otomewo nearly picked off a short pass on the same play Brisker would have had a sack. He also batted down a pass in team period
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