Each day of Steelers training camp, the Trib rounds up some things to pay attention to during practice at Saint Vincent:
WHAT TO WATCH
Filling a void: For the rain-abbreviated practice Tuesday, the first for the Steelers since the death of wide receivers coach Darryl Drake, the position was overseen by Ray Sherman and Blaine Stewart. Sherman, the Steelers offensive coordinator in 1998, had been in camp observing practice before Drake’s passing. Stewart is on staff as a coaching assistant. Coach Mike Tomlin said he has a plan for how he’ll distribute the coaching duties at wide receiver and those may become clear soon.
Winding down: The Steelers have just two practices remaining before the second preseason game, which is Saturday against Kansas City. They also are the final two practices before the Steelers break camp and return to UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Since the practice Tuesday was unpadded, expect a return to hitting as the Steelers try to return to a normal practice atmosphere.
Get in line: Tomlin didn’t reveal the nature of the injury to center Maurkice Pouncey, who hasn’t practiced since the Family Fest event at Heinz Field on Aug. 4. Tomlin did say that Pouncey is due to return “sooner than later.” Guard David DeCastro is dealing with “training camp-like soreness” but was dressed and watched practice Tuesday.
Practice time: 2:55-5 p.m., Chuck Noll Field
