Steelers Complete First Day In Pads
LATROBE (93-7 THE FAN) – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin seemed pleased with the first day in pads, which means the first day with live contact since the loss to Baltimore in January.
"Ebb and flow, wins and losses, that's all part of it," Tomlin said of the one-on-one drills. "I like the spirit in which they worked. I liked the professionalism in which they worked. As we get into pads and we infuse physicality into this thing, it's important that we have mutual respect. I like the beginning of that today."
Afternoon temperatures were around 90 degrees at St. Vincent College and the heat index was in triple digits. Vince Williams and B.J. Finney had some minor heat issues and no updates to any of the previously injured players.
"We're blessed to have these days," Tomlin said. "It's good to get out here in somewhat uncomfortable conditions and train. Hopefully, we have a few more muggy, nasty days to work in, it helps the process.
Bell Reacts to Suspension Reduction
Steelers tailback Le'Veon Bell said he didn't want to go into details after having his suspension reduced from three to two games after he was busted for a DUI last August.
"I'm glad to finally get it over with and look behind me and know exactly what I have to deal with and move forward, " Bell said before practice.
After about 45 seconds with the media, back-up tailback DeAngelo Williams, who was standing next to Bell, said he really appreciated it and with that, Williams and Bell went off to lunch.
Kentucky Coach Visits
Kentucky basketball coach John Calipari watched practice with the coaches and staff on the sidelines at St. Vincent. The Moon native is 593-174 in his college career, winning the 2012 National Championship.
"I got a lot of respect for Coach Cal," Tomlin said. "We bounce ideas off one another, he's a teacher and a great successful coach. It's great to share lessons and insight in that regard. He's a good friend of mine."
