12 players mentioned by Mike Tomlin following Thursday’s training camp practice

The Pittsburgh Steelers took to the practice field at St. Vincent College for training camp on Thursday. Following practice, head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media about their first day on the field. Since he was asked about a number of players, I am excited to bring back the players mentioned article to Steel Curtain Network for the 2025 season! Remember these are players where a specific question was asked during the Q&A period.

Jonnu Smith & Cordarelle Patterson

Coach Tomlin was asked if Jonnu Smith was one of the players dealing with heat-related issues.

“No, he can just be described as day to day. We’ll get him out here sooner rather than later, I’m sure.”

Coach Tomlin was asked the same question about Cordarrelle Patterson if he was dealing with heat-related issues.

“Same thing.”

Aaron Rodgers & Will Howard

Coach Tomlin was asked, after Arron Rodgers said it was good to get his first camp interception out of the way, if he puts any stock into what happens on the result of a play on the first day of practice.

Absolutely not.

Coach Tomlin was asked how he makes sure that you maintain the culture he’s always had after bringing in a player like Aaron Rodgers. In his response, Coach Tomlin also mentioned Jalen Ramsey, who will have his own section later.

“You know, when in Rome, he’s going to be Roman. It’s our job to teach him how we do things, but not only him, guys like Jalen Ramsey and others. We got a lot of new significant players. As a coach, I embrace that challenge of educating them not only about the things that we value, but how we go about our business. They have all been really receptive to it.”

Coach Tomlin was asked how he balances getting Aaron Rodgers the reps he needs versus his age. In his response, Coach Tomlin mentioned Will Howard.

“It’s really simple, man. Different people need different numbers of reps based on their intellect and experience and so forth. In an environment like this, it is my job to give the guys what they need. The less they need, the more opportunities and reps for those that need additional. Sometimes, I’ll take some reps away from him, I’ll allocate them to Will Howard, but that’s just a natural kind of common-sense approach to getting the collective ready.”

Coach Tomlin was asked what he noticed just about Rodgers’ style of communication?

“I really hadn’t paid a lot of attention to this point. Certainly not surprised that they have that perspective on him. He’s been a good communicator with me. He’s been on the job a long time. If you’re going to gain cohesion, certainly, communication is a component of it.

DK Metcalf

Coach Tomlin was asked about Aaron Rodgers being a suite mate with DK Metcalf and if it was by choice.

“That seems appropriate, doesn’t it?”

Jalen Ramsey

Coach Tomlin was asked about Jalen Ramsey being in the slot today and if that is something we should read into on day one or not just yet.

“You’re going to do it anyway. So, have at it, man. But get your cameras ready. You’re going to see him in a lot of places.”

Juan Thornhill

Coach Tomlin was asked if Juan Thornhill is a more significant guy than he was six weeks ago given those moves.

“I think just by virtue of the transaction, that’s an obvious answer to that question, certainly.”

Kaleb Johnson

Coach Tomlin was asked he feels like Kaleb Johnson has got a pretty high floor as a rookie.

“He does. He’s highly conditioned, and that helps development. When you’re in really good shape, you can take additional reps, and reps equals the get better. He handled the first leg of it. He’s in really good shape. He’s really engaged, and obviously he’s got some talent. You guys saw that today.”

Payton Wilson

Coach Tomlin was asked where he has seen Peyton Wilson take a step from year one to two.

“Stay tuned. We got one practice in year two. I’d be making something up if I characterize any development at this juncture, but I’m sure it’s going to show itself. He’s positioning himself to do so because he’s a hard worker. He’s got really good football character.”

Joey Porter Jr. & Darius Slay

Coach Tomlin was asked if he wants to see Joey Porter Jr. and DK Metcalf  go up against each other. In his response, Coach Tomlin also mentioned Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay.

“I want to see all of those guys compete. You know, everybody is goingtoget their shot at a guy like that. I’m sure Jalen feels the same way. I’m sure Slay feels the same way. I’m sure DK feels the same way. That’s what’s great about a camp environment where we’re practicing good on good, and we take the iron-on-iron principle to getting better.”

Keeanu Benton

Coach Tomlin was asked about Keeanu Benton probably being in the best shape he’s been, and if drafting a couple of guys at that position motivates guys.

“Again, it’s early, and so he’ll continue to get an opportunity to display that. Certainly, talent acquisition is a motivator. It’s a natural motivator for everyone.”

Mike Tomlin’s complete interview can be seen on the Steelers YouTube Channel HERE