Emotions were high yesterday as the Steelers returned to Latrobe for the final week of training camp following their 27-17 win over Tampa Bay on Friday. Among those impressed with the game was offensive coordinator Matt Canada, who felt his unit checked all the boxes in the opener.
Canada said the Steelers’ offense accomplished their goal of spreading the ball around, especially against a tough Buccaneers defense.
Canada was also impressed with wide receiver Calvin Austin III who hauled in two catches for 73 yards and rushed the ball twice for 23 yards. It was his first taste of in-game action with Pittsburgh after a foot injury kept him out all of last year and Canada said it’s important to get looks during the preseason.
Another player who performed well was rookie offensive lineman Spencer Anderson, who displayed his versatility on the field Friday night. Canada said that will be an important factor for him moving forward.
Injuries continued to grow on Friday as rookie defensive lineman Keeanu Neal left the game with an ankle injury. His status is questionable. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. did not play against Tampa Bay as he continues to heal an ankle injury suffered last week in practice.
The team also signed former Colts linebacker Forrest Rhyne yesterday to replace Chapelle Russell, who was also injured on Friday.
The Steelers will finish camp this week and welcome San Francisco to Acrisure Stadium Saturday night.
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