After a busy training camp for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team has officially left Latrobe, PA, once again. It was an eventful summer as the team led some new practices under their new head coach Mike McCarthy. The tempo was much higher, even though the practices were shorter than what Mike Tomlin normally demanded.
The roster saw new approaches, and some responded better than others.
No matter how you slice it, each NFL team has its own strengths and weaknesses heading into training camp. Some luck out and find solutions either in camp or when final roster cuts are made, and they look for new homes. Pittsburgh is having the conundrum of trying to find solutions to their greatest issues at training camp, while also breathing a sigh of relief for their shocking solutions.
Pittsburgh Steelers training camp exposed some inconsistencies on the roster for offense and defense
Uncomfortable truth: Steelers still have a giant question mark at inside linebacker
Even though they signed Elandon Roberts to boost the position, the success at inside linebacker still revolves around Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen. Neither part of that tandem was particularly good last season, and it's bullish to assume both will turn things around. The Steelers hope both Wilson and Queen will become a strong duo in the middle of the defense, but it's still a massive gamble.
Uncomfortable truth: They will need to add some outside pieces
For the most part, Pittsburgh's roster is solid and should be a playoff contender going into the season. With that said, they could use some help from outside hires once teams across the league make some cuts. Don't be shocked if the Steelers get players who are cut from other clubs to join their 53-man unit.
There are several positions that could use some help before the campaign starts.
Uncomfortable truth: Will Howard might be the odd-man-out
Going from the roar of the crowd that Will Howard received in his preseason debut to potentially getting cut after training camp is hard to fathom. The Steelers seem prepared to keep Mason Rudolph as the backup quarterback, which makes Howard the odd man out, unless they keep four on the roster. The offense could be better long-term with Howard in the mix, but his job isn't safe.
Win: The defensive front looks stronger than ever
One of the more positive things coming out of training camp has been the strong showing along the defensive line. Perhaps the group as a whole could use some extra pass rush help, but their run-stuffing ability has been great. Not only do the starters look ready to go, but the competition behind them has been solid. Some of the younger players are pushing for some snaps on defense.
Win: It seems that their group of wide receivers are much improved
When you compare the talent level of the wide receivers this year to last summer, it's nearly a night-and-day difference.
They have experienced weapons at the starting spots, with room to grow with younger players like Germie Bernard and Roman Wilson waiting in the wings. This group has capable starters and young pieces to help round out a strong position group.
Win: Mike McCarthy has brought a breath of fresh air to the team
After having the same head coach for 19 years, things can get stale. That change also brings some uncertainty with it. Mike McCarthy met those changes head-on and produced a strong training camp for the Steelers. He wasn't afraid to alter things to his liking, and for the most part, many were impressed. Hopefully that means McCarthy can finally get this team over the hump.
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