Steelers Rookie Minicamp Takeaways: QB Battle Open for Business
PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers finished off their weekend of rookie minicamp, heading indoors to avoid the rain at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Despite having to move inside, the practice continued as normal, and the team got their final look at 51 guys, including 32 who are trying out for a roster spot.
The takeaways from Day 2 were slightly different than Day 1. The overwhelming urge to let everyone know just how big Darnell Washington has come and gone. This time, what stood out what was noticeable coaching, rookie positions and, of course, the quarterbacks.
Which is where we'll start...
3rd QB Spot Open for Business
There's some buzz around the Steelers that NFL veteran Bryce Perkins could get a shot as the fourth quarterback Pittsburgh takes into OTAs, minicamp and training camp.
Perkins has spent the last three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, starting one game last season and throwing for 166 yards and a touchdown to two interceptions.
Tanner Morgan, the UDFA out of Minnesota, appears to be the favorite for the third spot. He's already been inked to a contract, meaning he's staying for the summer. Pittsburgh would need to sign Perkins as well if he were to join the 90-man roster as well.
Pittsburgh typically brings four quarterbacks into the summer. If that's the case, Morgan and Perkins will get opportunities - even if limited - to showcase themselves.
Perkins, the more mobile option among the two, could bring his NFL experience and make a name for himself in Pittsburgh at camp.
Nick Herbig Working in Coverage
Nick Herbig has worked with the outside linebacker through rookie minicamp, but the coaches made sure he showcased some of his athleticism during practice as well.
Herbig worked with a few linebackers in drop backs and worked on catching in coverage during individual drills.
Herbig playing off-ball linebacker will likely be few and far between this season, but the Steelers are making sure he's capable of it. Plus, the outside linebackers do drop back from time to time, which is where Herbig's versatility will come into play.
For those trying to figure out what position works best for the fourth-round pick, chances are he's utilized off the edge, and a little in the middle this summer.
Nothing Flashy - Yet
Last year, rookie minicamp had some buzz around it. The Steelers had two new quarterbacks, some flashy new wide receivers, and some underdogs looking to make the team. This year, it's a lot more quiet.
Without the headlines about players like Jaylen Warren making a splash or George Pickens looking like an instant star, it's easy to overlook some of the sleepers, and excitement, that come with rookie minicamp.
So, here are a few names to watch for that may get deals.
Tylar Wiltz, LB, Pitt
Wiltz came on late for the Pitt Panthers and ended up undrafted and ultimately invited to rookie camp. The Steelers have four inside linebackers on the roster, but Tanner Muse is likely viewed as more of a special teams player and less of a defender.
Wiltz could get a deal just to fill a roster spot for the remainder of the summer. From there, it's all about how much he makes the of the opportunity.
Bryce Perkins, QB, Virginia
There's some talk about the quarterbacks, and how both Hunter Johnson and Bryce Perkins could find themselves in the running for the team's third quarterback spot. First, one of them needs a contract, and Perkin's experience in the NFL might give him an upper-hand.
Still, it's easy to question what hidden talents Johnson has after his journey to the league.
Adam Korsak, P, Rutgers
Want to talk about being in a limited situation, with the Steelers moving practice inside, the special teams did literally nothing throughout the afternoon.
Korsak and all the kickers kicked a total of zero footballs throughout the day. Maybe the Steelers gave them the field afterward to work on the skills and show the team what they have, but during practice, it was silent for Korsak and company.
Still, the Rutgers punter led the NCAA in punting yards last season and won the Ray Guy Award. Pittsburgh having a three-man punting battle isn't off the table, and would be fun for those special teams enthusiasts out there.
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