Steelers Open Camp Strong as Rodgers and Metcalf Build Immediate Chemistry
Monday’s first padded practice will provide the clearest look at trenches, contact and which backup quarterbacks and depth players can hold roster spots.
Overview
- The Steelers finished a near‑perfect week of no‑pad work and enter an off day on Sunday with coaches and players upbeat about early progress.
- Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf connected repeatedly across the field in team drills, with Metcalf making contested catches and Rodgers showing consistent downfield accuracy.
- Rookie Drew Allar and backup Will Howard have flashed big plays, including a 40‑yard back‑shoulder throw to A.T. Perry by Allar, but both remain clearly developmental.
- Defensive playmakers stood out during limited‑contact work as T.J. Watt intercepted Rodgers on a Saturday look and Asante Samuel Jr. broke up multiple passes in the absence of other corners.
- Coaches praised Mike McCarthy’s tighter practice schedule for increasing purposeful reps and several fringe players gained or lost stock ahead of Monday’s pads that will shape final depth and quarterback decisions.