Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin likes to use the terms “varsity” and “junior varsity” in context when referring to players at various levels of acumen and resume. After a “junior varsity” practice on offense Wednesday, the Steelers’ “varsity” was back on the field a day later.
Of the eight offensive starters who sat out practice Wednesday, six returned Thursday. Only guards David DeCastro (knee) and Stefan Wisniewski (pectoral) continued to sit out.
But running back James Conner (ankle) and receivers Diontae Johnson (toe) and JuJu Smith Schuster (knee) returned to workouts after each had suffered an injury during Monday’s win at the New York Giants. Conner’s status was the most in question because he left the game during the first half and did not return.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and center Maurkice Pouncey each practiced after being given their standard “veteran’s day off,” and left tackle Alejandro Villanueva returned from illness.
In another positive development for the Steelers, starting defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt returned to practice after missing Wednesday because of an Achilles injury.
The Steelers’ final practice of the week is Friday. Their home opener is Sunday against the Denver Broncos.
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