Steelers Roster Down to 53

The Steelers announced the release of 22 players from their roster yesterday (3 placed on waived / injured list; another on the NFL's International Players Development Program - practice squad). As previously posted, backup QB Charlie Batch was placed in injured reserve.

1. LB Patrick Bailey
2. WR/KR Eddie Drummond
3. P Paul Ernster
4. FB Billy Latsko
5. OG Doug Legursky
6. OG Matt Lentz
7. CB Roy Lewis
8. S Grant Mason
9. DE Ryan McBean
10. OT Jeremy Parquet
11. DT Scott Paxson
12. DE Jordan Reffett
13. WR Willie Reid
14. WR Micah Rucker
15. TE Dezmond Sherrod
16. TE Lee Vickers
17. RB Justin Vincent
18. CB Travis Williams
    
19. LB Arnold Harrison (waived / injured list - left knee)
20. LB Mike Humpal (waived / injured list - neck)
21. S Ryan Mundy (waived / injured list - ankle)
22. Marvin Allen (practice squad - International Player Development Program)*
23. Charlie Batch

The Steelers also announced that Marvin Allen will be added to the practice squad as part of the NFL's international player development program which enables them to carry a ninth practice squad player beginning after 12 noon on Sunday, August 31st (otherwise, they are only able to sign 8 players to the squad).

A Few Rumors for Your Saturday

TIOPS has posted some interesting speculation about the Steelers today.

• The Steelers have approached the Chicago Bears (who have been in the market for a tackle) to gauge the trade interest in Max Starks, but its his salary - not him - that remains an issue (what a surprise!). Supposedly Starks has been saying that he believes he won't remain a Pittsburgh Steeler this season. [I still don't know what the deal was with that $7 million!!]
• a "source" will not confirm or deny that Sean Mahan is demanding to be traded

Very interesting! We'll have to wait and see if there are any truth to these rumors.

We ARE the Best Fans in America!

ESPN ranked Steelers fan the best fans in America - but everyone already knew that!! They based their ranking on (1=GREAT; 5=worst):

• Stadium factor (loud? great atmosphere?) - our rank: 1
• Live and die factor (fans take loss hard? ESPN considers this a good thing) - 1
• Traveling road show factor (big presence in other stadiums?) - 2
• Loyalty when team sucks (score points by sticking with loser) - 1
• Hate factor (other teams fans hate your fans; this is good according to ESPN) - 1
• Tailgate factor (home tailgates sizzling or stale?) - 2
• Home fans creativity (wacky ideas or not?) - 2
• TOTAL (adding up the above rankings) - 10 (we actually tied with Greenbay Packers fans with the total, but think that sellouts and season-ticket waiting list placed us above them) -- SEE BELOW

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Consecutive sellouts: 299 Season-ticket waiting list: More than six years

No team is as woven into the fabric of a city. The organization's stability has a lot to do with it, as generations of Steelers fans relate to the tradition of ownership (Rooneys), smashmouth football, quality head coaches (league-low three since 1969) and success (five Super Bowl titles). The season-ticket waiting list is extremely long and the consecutive sellout streak of 299 games, including playoffs, is unbelievable. -- James Walker

Batch will Remain a Pittsburgh Steeler (for now)

Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has an article today reporting that the Pittsburgh Steelers will be going with Byron Leftwich as their backup QB and keeping Dennis Dixon for their #3 while placing Charile Back on IR with a possibility of using a procedural injury settlement in which he would be available to them if needed later.

Batch has about 4 weeks left of recovery time left and will be healthy enough to begin playing again at that time; however, if they place him on injured reserve, his season would end regardless of whether or not he is healthy enough to play and would have to pay him his full salary of $1,355.000. With having the choice to use a procedural injury settlement, the Steelers could release him and have him available to them in the second half of the season with only having to pay him a part of that salary; however, as a free agent, he could also sign with another team during that time and only be available to the Steelers after mid-season if he didn't sign with another team.

Batch will be a free agent after this year.

NOT Steelers News, but Still VERY INTERESTING!!

Chad Johnson's name is now officially Chad Ocho Cinco!!

That's right, Chad Johnson has legally changed his last name to Ocho Cinco (a name his coach HATES)!! Actually his official name is now Chad Javon Ocho Cinco. From the Bengals webpage in reference to marketing potential:

“It’s something I don’t think anyone has ever done before. Have I ever had a reason for why I do what I do? I’m having fun.”

Whatever!

Mendenhall to be Featured on NFL Show

The Steelers posted on their webpage today that their rookie running back, Rashard Mendenhall will be one of five rookies featured on "Hey Rookie, Welcome to the NFL," which is scheduled to air on Tuesday, September 2nd at 8 PM on ESPN2 and will be shown again on Thursday, September 4th at 3 PM again on ESPN2.

The cameras follow each selected rookie from draft day to the final cuts for an exclusive inside look at a rookie's journey through this exciting and stressful experience along with his life outside of football for a rare look at a more personal side like what they enjoy doing in their free time - for Mendenhall, that includes playing the saxophone and clarinet.

“They came to my house before I left for training camp,” said Mendenhall. “They came for a few visits to see what was going on. They talked to me a few times during training camp.”

Has Mendenhall Learned to Hold On to the Football?

It looks like money isn't the answer to help Rashard Mendenhall learn how to hold on to the football.


If you're not aware of what I'm referring to, I'll give you a little background information. It started last Monday morning when he arrived for practice at the Steelers' South Side facility and found the following message scribbled onto the grease board in the locker room:

"Take Mendenhall's ball away and get $100 from him. And you get an extra $500 if you bring it to the RB's meeting room."

This message came with a special football given to Mendenhall with another message written on it: "Mendenhall's $100 ball. You get it, you will get paid."

Out of this little rookie "exercise" thought out by his veteran teammate Hines Ward, Mendenhall has lost a total of $200 to veteran safety Tyrone Carter and rookie defensive back Travis Williams.

Did Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin agree with "exercise"? His take is that it's OK as long as it helps the player avoid this mistake in the future.

"Peer pressure is the ultimate motivator," Tomlin said. "The reality is he has to hold onto the ball."

However, it appears that the exercise didn't yet sink into the rookie's playing mindset as he fumbled the ball again last night. Being aware that it's more of a psychological matter more than anything, Tomlin continued to put Mendenhall back in and have him carry the ball several times more. Hopefully, Mendenhall has gotten this little rookie mental block out of his system and is ready to go for the regular season.

Steelers Win Final Pre-Season Game (Thanks, Again, to Reed!)

Again, Steelers Kicker Jeff Reed won the game for them by kicking a 43-yard field goal last night against the Florida Panthers. The final score was 19 - 16.

"That was a good finish to what has been a very good preseason for us," said head coach Mike Tomlin. "We got a lot of things accomplished that we wanted to get accomplished tonight. We felt that it was necessary to get some no-huddle offense) in with our first offense inside stadiums in the preseason. That is a weapon that we like to use offensively, so we needed to get that done. We got a couple of series of that. We wanted the defense to come out and get after the run again and build upon the performance that we had last week. I thought that we did a nice job against the run."

Pittsburgh Steelers Host Carolina Panthers Tonight

The Steelers final pre-season game in tonight; kick-off at 7:00 PM.

Series History

Series History: Series began in 1996
Overall: Pittsburgh leads 3-1
At Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh leads 2-0
At Carolina: Series tied 1-1
Neutral Sites: n/a
Last Regular-Season Meeting: Dec. 17, 2006 (in Charlotte) Pittsburgh 37, Carolina 3
Preseason: Pittsburgh leads 5-4
(preseason record not included in overall series record)

Pittsburgh is 5-4 all-time against the Carolina Panthers in the preseason...the Steelers are 2-1 at home against the Panthers and 3-3 in Charlotte...Pittsburgh will play Carolina in its preseason finale for the eighth time since 1997 (1997, ‘98, ‘03, ‘04, ‘05, ‘06, ‘07) and is 4-3 in those games...last year, the Steelers captured a 19-3 victory over the Panthers in Charlotte in the preseason finale for both teams...the Steelers have a 3-1 record versus Carolina in the regular season, defeating the Panthers, 37-3, in the last matchup on Dec. 17, 2006, at Bank of American Stadium.

WANTED (by Trib Review): Tailgaters with Extensive Menus

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review is looking for Steelers fans who plan unique and extensive tailgating menus.

We would love to hear from you about the foods and drinks you will be serving before Thursday's preseason Steelers/Carolina Panthers game.

Please contact JoAnne Harrop (jharrop@tribweb.com) with a sample of your menu, your name, and tailgate location.

Steelers Waive Tight End

The Steelers announced today that they placed tight end Cody Boyd on the Waived / Injured list which brings that team down to 76 players. They will need to eliminate an additional player by the 4 PM deadline today to meet the NFL's maximum roster limit of 75 total.

Foote OUT for Thursday

I just read that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin announced at his press conference today that Larry Foote (along with Mike Humpal) will not be playing in Thursday's final pre-season game against the Panthers. He is listing QB Ben Roethlisberger as "day-to-day" along with Limas Sweed (who may be limited in practice today); and Ryan Mundy is questionable.

That's all the news I've found so far, but will keep you posted when I find out more today (especially with the injury status of Foote and Big Ben).

Steelers Roster Moves

Yesterday, the Steelers made a few roster moves placing Daniel Sepulveda on injured / reserved (IR) and cutting wide receiver/return specialist Jeremy Bloom as well as quarterback Mike Potts and defensive lineman Martavius Prince.


The team currently has 77 players (2 more than roster limit of 75 needed by today at 4 PM).


According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, wide receiver Marvin Allen does not count against the 75 players since he will be placed on the practice squad as part of the NFL's international player development program.

Foote to Undergo Testing

Larry Foote left during the first quarter of the game on Saturday with a knee injury.

Coach Mike Tomlin said that he does not think the injury is major but Foote will undergo tests to be sure.

KDKA's Jory Rand also mentioned last night that Foote may not take part in the Steelers next pre-season game against the Florida Panthers on Thursday, but will be reporting updates on the story on Monday (today).

Rand also reported that Roethlisberger was seen with an ice pack on his ankle and "severely limping" after the game. I could be wrong, but I don't think there's much to this like every other time Ben looks injured - he likes the attention. He looked fine after his time playing in the game was over and the CBS commentators interviewed him (no signs of pain on his face; although there were some major bunny ears!). Then again, maybe he's trying to get the offensive line more motivated to defend him. It's worth a try!! I'm sure we'll hear more about this today.

Roethlisberger Saddened by Challis' Passing

Steelers quarterback BenRoethlisberger met John Challis on May 16th at a Pittsburgh Penguins playoff game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Challis sat in Mario Lemieux's luxury box and got to meet Roethlisberger and Dan Rooney.

The last time Roethlisberger saw Challis was when Challis was at St. Vincent college to watch the Steelers practice at training camp.

“It was tough seeing John at camp,” Roethlisberger said. “When I saw him at the hockey game, he looked good. At training camp, you could tell he was getting worse.”

“But the one thing about John is that he never lost focus on what his point was and what his mission was. He stayed upbeat no matter what and made a lot of people appreciate what they have and to be thankful for every day. It takes a strong kid and a strong person to be able to do the things he did. Even though he was sick, he always managed to bring a smile to your face. It was great to be able to meet him and know him.”

“My heart goes out to his family,” Roethlisberger added. “Our thoughts and prayers have always been with him.”

[information taken from article posted on timesonline.com]

Polamalu is BORED!

Troy Polamalu took part in pre-game warm-ups, but did not see any playing time in yesterday's pre-season game against the Vikings. Coach Mike Tomlin said he was kept out as a precaution.

I honestly think he's starting to get a little bored on the sidelines.

Exhibit #1 (from the first pre-season game) - Troy pranks Santonio with a water bottle.



Exhibit #2 (from last night's game) - Troy and Hines poke fun behind Roethlisberger's back during an interview with the the CBS football commentators.

Steelers.com Game Preview

To get a look at tonight's game against the Vikings, visit Steelers.com for some history and information.

Maxim.com Names a Few Steeler Players to the 2008 All-Maxim Team

Maxim.com thinks that Ben Roethlisberger is as blue-collar as the city he plays for and just another ordinary guy which is one of the reasons they give for naming him as part of the 2008 All-Maxim Team - Offense (QB).

Troy Polamalu was named as one of the players on the 2008 All-Maxim Team - Defense.

But it's Jeff Reed's attitude off the field that makes Maxim.com choose him as the kicker on the 2008 All-Maxim Team - Offense!

How COOL is That?!!

As Steelers fans, we are very aware that Steelers Nation is spread out across all the US, but the world? Perhaps someone was more aware of the magnitude of the Steelers fan base when they coined the named Steelers "Nation."

Take a look at this picture - does something jump out at you? Yep - there's that big ol' beautiful Terrible Towel of ours in the background of the USA women's beach volleyball gold medal winners Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor along with silver and bronze medal winning teams - in BEIJING, CHINA!!


The Steeler players were just as surprised to see the Terrible Towel waving in this picture; here are some of the reactions:

CASEY HAMPTON:

“Come on. Wow! We are always representing. When we go to other stadiums we have more fans and our fans are louder. It’s crazy to see, but I definitely can believe it.”

HINES WARD:

“That just speaks about the Steelers nation – we are all the way in China. That is what is great about the organization and fans – no matter where we go in the world there are Steelers fans everywhere. It’s just great to be a part of it. That picture speaks for itself – we are everywhere.”

BEN ROETHLISBERGER:

“That’s pretty cool. We know we have fans all over the world. That just proves it right there. It’s awesome to see the support of the United States and the Steelers. To have them back us like that is awesome.”

So if "they" want to call the Dallas Cowboys "America's Team," that's fine. But this picture proves that the Steelers are not only America's team; they're the World's!

2008 Steelers Ladies Night Out

This year's Steelers Ladies Night Out will be held on Wednesday, October 8th at 4 PM -10 PM at Heinz Field. Registration is now open and will be on a "first-come, first served" basis. They are expecting it to sell out quickly.

Pamper yourself ladies as your evening will include a Prime Rib dinner in the spectacular East Club Lounge overlooking the skyline of the city of Pittsburgh with two current Steelers players as special guests giving you insight on their weekly lives. Everyone will also receive a tour of Heinz Field as well as having an opportunity to be part of the audience in a live taping of the PNC Hines Ward Show in the Coca-Cola Great Hall. Finally, everyone will receive a Ladies cut long sleeve Steelers t-shirt, Steelers hat, 2008 Steelers Yearbook and a 2008 Team Photo signed by the two current players appearing at the East Club Lounge.

The cost is $95 and the form you need to fill out and send in with your check / money order payment can be filled out or printed from the Steelers.com webpage (with additional information such as the address to send your payment to).

Registration Form

Farrior a Steeler for Five More Years!

It was just announced that James Farrior, Steelers veteran linebacker, has signed a 5-year extension allowing him to play through the 2012 season.

Good for Farrior - it's been the talk that this is what he wanted (and some speculation that he wouldn't get it) - that's good news for both the Steelers and Farrior!

[UPDATE:] ESPN.com is reporting that "a source confirmed" Farrior's deal is 5 years $18.25 including a $5 million signing bonus!!

Starters Will See More Playing Time on Saturday

Steelers.com has an article posted about the starters to play more in this upcoming pre-season game against the Vikings on Saturday. That comes as no surprise - isn't that what they usually do (the closer and closer it gets to the regular season, we see the starters play more and more - maybe not.)?

Whatever the case, they're ready! They're itching to play just as we are to see them play! Hines Ward says that they prepare like any other game; the difference being that they won't use alot of the gameplay strategies as they would in the regular season - don't want to give that away (unless it's agains the Patriots and then it doesn't matter what you do or don't "give away," they'll see it at some point when they tape your practice / game!!). Preparing as they normally would allows them to be ready and creates a better situation for they guys to avoid getting hurt.

Newly acquire backup QB, Byron Leftwich, feels more ready for this game then the one last Thursday when he was sort of "thrown in" after being signed only a few days which isn't much time to study the playbooks.

“I am feeling more comfortable,” said Leftwich. “I have a better understanding of what we are trying to do offensively. It was a tough situation last week when I only had two days. At the same time it’s getting better."

“I don’t want to say I am fully getting the offense but I am getting the offense to the point where I know where the ball needs to go and what we are trying to do. I am looking forward to it because I have a week to prepare instead of two days. I am anxious and excited to go back out there on Saturday.”

He may think he could get more familiar with the offense and he's probably right, but I'm surely feeling comfortable with him as our #2 guy - I like him all around!

John Challis Leaves Behind Lasting Memory

John Challis' two-year battle with liver and lung cancer ended yesterday afternoon. The amount of support that has been shown to John and his family over the past few months speaks volumes about the young man and the amount of people he touched throughout his short life of 18 years.

Just as Challis' message spread throughout the country, so too has the word of his passing and all media venues have decided to pay tribute. The blogosphere is no exception, so I feel compelled to join my fellow bloggers in extending my deepest sympathies to the Challis family. With as many lives as John has touched, I'm certain that his memory will live on and continue to help make this world a better place.

Courage + believe = life.

Life ain't about how many breaths you take. It's what you do with those breaths.

In Memory of

John Challis

Courage for Life Foundation

The Wait is Over - Polamalu Participates in Practice

Speculation ended yesterday as Troy Polamalu participated in his first practice since being placed on the PUPS list prior to Steelers training camp because of a hamstring injury (the Steelers first practice back home at the UPMC Sports Performance Complex).

Coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that they are waiting to see how Polamalu feels on Wednesday (today) and the days leading up to their next pre-season game against the Vikings on Saturday to decide whether or not he will play.

“It felt good. I think it felt fine,” said Polamalu of his first practice. “It’s nice to get out there and put the pads on and really feel like a part of the team.”

Team members could also tell the difference made by his presence on the practice field.

“Just his presence is amazing,” said cornerback Deshea Townsend. “The main thing for our defense is having another playmaker out there. The more playmakers you can put on the field the better for your defense.

You Need an Agent for That?!

I came across an interesting article by Mike Florio about Daunte Culpepper posted on SportingNews.com. It suggests that Culpepper needs an agent for his non-existent career to go better.

This article peeked my interest because of the recent dealings the Steelers have had with the veteran quarterback and his willingness to continue sitting out rather than being paid to be the #2 man (something I just couldn't understand from the get-go). You mean to tell me that sitting at home doing nothing and getting paid zilch is much more appealing than standing on the sidelines of an NFL team doing nothing AND GETTING PAID just because you want a chance to compete for a starting position? This may make sense for another player in another situation, but for a veteran whose career doesn't seem to be going anywhere, it's simply stupid, especially considering that the Steelers franchise quarterback already signed a $100 million contract!

Although I may agree on a few points made by this article, my opinion is that Culpepper doesn't need an agent to help him acquire a job in the NFL, he needs a shrink or perhaps a trusted friend to sit him down and slap him silly with the truth!

Teams haven't had any interest in Culpepper since the end of the 2007 season, but he hasn't been too wise in his decisions either - he hasn't turned down just one offer, but two. First, the Packers offered him a $1 million deal in April and then the Steelers were in a position to offer him 1 year at $730,000. He wasn't interested because he wanted a guarantee he would be on the roster for a chance to compete with Ben Roethlisberger for the starting position - like that's going to happen! It's almost like "Deal or No Deal" at this point! The more offers he turns down and the more he chooses the $0.01 cases (sitting at home getting paid nothing), the more the offers from that anonymous man up in that booth keep getting lower. He doesn't see a pattern here (or maybe he just doesn't watch that gameshow)?

Now it's been a story of "too little, too late." The article goes on to report that Culpepper may have finally caught on to the fact that he's ridiculously holding out for "something better" since he more recently told USA Today:

"I initially hoped to have an opportunity to start. I am now looking for any team that will give me an opportunity to contribute wherever I am needed."

Sorry, you used all of your life-lines and disparity isn't appealing to anyone let alone an NFL team! Can he buy a vowel - oh wait, that's another gameshow and it wouldn't help in this situation. Maybe Culpepper should be watching more TV in his spare time or give me a call -- I'd be willing to give up my day job to be paid to tell him to wise up, wouldn't you?!

Gatorade / Steelers 5K Race, Fitness Walk, and Kids' Kickoff Run

The 20th Annual Gatorade/Steelers 5K Race, Fitness Walk and Kids’ Kickoff Run is part of the festivities of the annual Coors Light Kickoff Rib and Music Festival. The race / walk / run will be held on Monday, September 1st at 9 AM at Heinz Field.

Former Steelers tight end Randy Grossman will serve as the honorary chair for the race.

Polamalu Could Return Tuesday

Sunday was the last day for training camp and the Steelers will return to the South Side complex to start practicing again on Tuesday.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting the possibility that Troy Polamalu will be taken off the PUPS list to participate in the practice on Tuesday and perhaps play against the Vikings on Saturday.

"Troy had a nice day running today," coach Mike Tomlin said after practice yesterday. "We'll run him again tomorrow. Hopefully ... we'll get him out there to practice on Tuesday."

Steelers Sign a Familiar Face

Sunday, the Steelers signed defensive end Orpheus Roye.

Pittsburgh originally drafted Roye as a 6th round pick in 1996 played with them until he was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an unrestricted free agent in 2000. He was released earlier this year.

"He is a veteran defensive lineman, a guy who knows how to play the game," said head coach Mike Tomlin. "He is a professional. We will see what he is capable of doing and work him out. He had a very solid workout and seems to be in pretty good shape, so we will continue on him the next couple of weeks and see if he can find a seat on the bus, if you will."

"I know I can help," said Roye. "I have been around for a while. I was used to this defense. It will take me a while to get back, but I think I can contribute."

Already having the advantage of playing under Dick LeBeau and John Mitchell will definitely be a plus for Roye (and the Steelers).

"The defense looks pretty much the same," said Roye. "Everything is still good. You have to come out here and work. I am coming to a good defense. I have to come here and help them win. I have to find my role and do what I can to help the team win."

Roster Moves

The Steelers made three roster moves yesterday.

They signed free agent tight end Lee Vickers; placed tight end Jonathan Dekker on the Waived/Injured list; and waived defensive end Kevin Huntley.

Steelers Extend Courtesy to the Left

Are all the Steelers democrats?

The time of the Steelers last pre-season game on Thursday, August 28th against the Carolina Panthers will begin a half-hour earlier to accomodate coverage of the Democratic National Convention.

The team announced yesterday that this game will start at 7 pm instead of 7:30 pm.

The game is scheduled to air on KDKA and FSN Pittsburgh (be sure to check your local listings).

Defensive End IN / Defensive Tackle OUT

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported yesterday that the Steelers signed defensive end Kevin Huntley and released rookie defensive tackle Kyle Clement.

Huntley was placed on waivers by the Redskins.

Clement signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent and has sat out of practice since Sunday when he sprained his knee.

Surgery Performed to Insert Plate in Batch's Clavicle

As most of you are already aware, Steelers back-up quarterback, Charlie Batch, broke his right collarbone on a miscommunicated play in last Friday's pre-season opener against the Eagles. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Batch underwent surgery yesterday to repair the damage and insert a plate in his clavicle, and is expected to be out six weeks. If Batch elected not to have the surgery, the recovery period would've been 10 - 12 weeks and would've likely been placed on the injured reserve list.

"That would have been the option," Batch said. "And I didn't want to do that, not at all." Because he is a quarterback who relies on a throwing motion, Batch said a plate will be inserted to ensure his collarbone would remain the same length and would not "shorten" from scar-tissue buildup that occurs during a non-surgical recovery period.

"This is the best way to go about it and the fastest way," Batch said.

Culpepper Not Willing to Accept Back-Up Role

Even though both Byron Leftwich and Daunte Culpepper visited the Steelers training camp today and the Steelers were interested in signing them both in order to create a competition - the quarterback who wasn't the best fit would be released or traded at the end of pre-season - Culpepper was not willing to do that without a guarantee.

TIOPS is reporting that both quarterbacks were offered a contract by Pittsburgh, but Culpepper was not willing to sign with the Steelers without being guaranteed a roster spot. An ESPN.com article also reports that "Culpepper was hoping for a chance to compete for a starting job."

Leftwich understands and is comfortable with his role on the team.

"You've got no chance when you've got (No.) 7 here. Only a fool would come here and believe that (in) Week 1, he's going to be the starter," said Leftwich,the seventh overall draft pick in 2003 who passed for 9,042 yards, 51 touchdowns and 36 interceptions and was 24-20 as a starter in Jacksonville. "Ben's a (heck)of a quarterback, and I understand that."

"It's different because you're not the guy. We all know who the guy is here. My job is to prepare myself every day just in case I'm needed," said Leftwich.

I was anxious to see where these 2 quarterbacks would lead. I was most excited to know that the team would have a chance to sign 1, if not 2, veterans even though I wasn't familiar with them as players (only by name). Hearing from Leftwich today made me feel certain he's definitely the right man for the job and that he is smart enough to know where he fits in on the team. As I told my husband today, it's better to be paid to do "nothing" then to do nothing and not get paid. Leftwich realizes that it's an opportunity whereas Culpepper isn't yet willing to get paid to do "nothing" because his ego, pride, whatever you want to call it, is getting in the way!

Hampton Off PUPS List

Casey Hampton participated in practice yesterday at Steelers training camp for the first time since he was placed on the PUPS list.

Hampton has been working with conditioning assistant Marcel Pastoor to get his weight down. TIOPS is saying that Hampton is down to 340 pounds (he is listed as 325); however, it's not yet known if he will play in the next pre-season game on Thursday night against the Buffalo Bills.

Annual Coors Light Kickoff and Rib Festival

It's the start of football season and that means the Annual Coors Light Kickoff and Rib Festival. Festivities and events are scheduled from Friday, August 29th through Monday, September 1st.

Thursday, August 28th - final Steelers pre-season game against the Panthers (the festival begins along Art Rooney Avenue prior to the game)

Friday, August 29th - free Clarks concert
Saturday, August 30 - Pitt Panthers vs. Bowling Green (Saturday evening features free Night Ranger concert)

Sunday, August 31 - free Kenny Wayne Shepherd concert
Monday, September 1st - kicks off with the Steelers 5K Race and Walk and an afternoon full of activities including a free concert at 4:30pm by Bad Company.

Leftwich OFFICIAL (and New Punter is Signed)

The Steelers have officially announced their signing veteran quarterback Bryan Leftwich and 13-year punter Mitch Berger to one-year deals.

Daunte Culpepper is still also "in the mix." Both Culpepper and Byron Leftwich participated in the morning workout today.

Following the workout, the Steelers went to work with the agents for both players, and it was shortly after the team’s only practice of the day at SaintVincent College that Coach Mike Tomlin announced Leftwich had signed.

“We made an agreement with Byron Leftwich to sign and be a quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers,” said Tomlin. “We have some familiarity there, because Ken Anderson, our quarterbacks coach, worked with him down in Jacksonville.”

To add Leftwich and Berger to the roster, Pittsburgh cut lineback Anthony Trucks and wide receiver Gerran Walker.

Steelers Added BOTH Culpepper AND Leftwich

Charlie Batch's injury during the 2nd quarter of Friday's preseason game leaves the Steelers in somewhat of a bind.

Coach Mike Tomlin said they look to sign another veteran quarterback. Among those fitting the veteran criteria and currently available are Daunte Culpepper and Byron Leftwich.

There are several sites reporting that the Steelers HAVE signed BOTH Culpepper and Leftwich! ProFootballTalk.com (PFT) and TIOPS say their sources have told them the team will add two veteran quarterbacks. TIOPS is saying that Mike Potts will be released and Culpepper will be at camp today and the speculation for signing both quarterbacks is said to be because Charlie Batch's injury is more serious than originally thought and will be out longer than anticipated - perhaps for the season.

My husband feels that the Steelers are more likely to keep Culpepper rather than Leftwich for the simple reason that Culpepper played for the Vikings -- the team Tomlin was previous a Defensive Coordinator for.

BATCH Out 4 - 6 Weeks

Steelers #2 quarterback, Charlie Batch, was hurt in yesterday's pre-season opener. Speculation was confirmed later during the game when announcers reported he suffered a broken collar bone. Early reports say he'll be out for 4 - 6 weeks (some have extended it to 8 weeks).

It looks likely that the Steelers will be in the market for another quarterback. The name Brian St. Pierre has been brought up more than once. He signed with the Arizona Cardinal in the off-season which would mean Steelers would have to make a trade if Ken Whisenhunt is willing to part with him (perhaps he would see a former Steeler for another Steeler as a fair trade).

ROETHLISBERGER Will Start Friday

Coach Mike Tomlin said that Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will start in the team's first pre-season game tonight, but that it will not be for more than a series.

Tomlin said that he will use all four quarterbacks in the pre-season opener with each of the rookie quarterbacks Dennis Dixon and Mike Potts heading in after veteran Charlie Batch.

Roethlisberger's participation in practice over the past four days was limited due to a groin injury that Tomlin said was precautionary.

Troy Polomalu and Casey Hampton remain on the PUPS list and will not play in tonight's game. Other players who are ruled out for the game are Anthony Smith and Cody Boyd.

Sepulveda Has Surgery

Daniel Sepulveda had surgery on the torn ACL in his right knee on Wednesday.

Sepulveda is definitely out for this season but Coach Mike Tomlin says he will not be placed on injured reserve until the Steelers roster is cut down to 72 players.

Pre-Season HIT

Yesterday at practice, Steelers safety Anthony Smith delivered a hard blow to Ward who was slow to get up after he hit the ground. This wasn't the first time that Ward has been upset with Smith over hard hits. Last year at camp Ward was anything but happy about Smith plowing over wide receiver Willie Reid and again at one of last week's practice, Reid was the target of one of Smith's blows. However, this WAS the first time that Ward was on the receiving end of one of Smith's hits!

When asked about it, the permanent smile typically on Ward's face was no where to be found.

"There's not much to say ... he hit me," Ward said. "You saw what happened.
You guys saw it. There's really nothing for me to say."

"I'm not going to comment about it," Ward said. "I've been hit before."

"I normally don't get hit like that during the preseason till preseason games," Ward said. "It is what it is. I'm not going to harp about it."

And they say Sidney Crosby whines!

Unnecessary Roughness? Maybe. Hines Ward's gripe legitimate? Perhaps. But let's just keep it on the field and out of the media and everyone's view.

TOMLIN in His Penguins Jersey!

It was last week that I reported Stan Savran presented Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin with his very own authentic Penguins Jersey being deemed the Penguins #1 fan on his "Savran on Sportsbeat" show. Above is the first picture I came across that was posted on the Steelers.com webpage. He actually put it on (after the cameras were off, apparently). Pretty cool!!

MOOREHOUSE Visits Steeler Camp

Pittsburgh Penguins President, David Morehouse (pictured above on the right), made it to the Steelers Training Camp on Monday to watch the team practice. He visited the Rooney's along with Kevin Colbert, the Steelers director of football operations (who was often spotted at Penguins games during the playoffs / SCF).

Senator Casey Visits Steelers at Camp

Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr. was at St. Vincent College at the Fred Rogers Center attending a forum on chilhood issues on Monday. Afterwards, he spent some time visiting with the Rooney's.

So, of course, he was going to make a pit-stop at the Steelers training camp while there. He even caught a few from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger prior to the Steeler's practice on Monday.

“It’s a great honor to be here with Ben and also the Rooney family,” said Casey. “I have known them a long time and they have been great friends.”

“My father would have killed to have done this,” said Casey. “He was a big Steelers fan like we all are. My daughters won’t believe this. I need pictures to prove it."

Kemoeatu Returned to Training on Monday

Steelers.com reports that Chris Kemoeatu returned on Monday after spending the first week of training camp on the physically unable to perform list.

He injured his left elbow back home in Hawaii while preparing for training camp when he was running steps with his brother. Kemoeatu tripped on a step and landed on his elbow, causing the injury.

“I tried to catch myself and landed on the elbow,” said Kemoeatu. “It’s not sore right now, until I put a lot of pressure on it.”

Kemoeatu wore a brace to protect it in practice on Monday and will continue to wear it for the next few weeks. Kemoeatu is currently one of the players in a battle to replace Alan Faneca at left guard, so he has to make up for the days he lost.

“You know, this guy is a guy that likes to work,” said Tomlin. “He is very prepared. He had a nice offseason. He came in here in great condition. We went out and worked and it’s great to have him back.”

“How many days have we been here? That is how far he is behind,” said Tomlin. “But he is a professional and I’m sure he will catch up relatively quickly.”

Rooney & Fitzpatrick Receive Honour from Queen

From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Blog 'N' Gold blog

SECRETARY OF STATE FOR NORTHERN IRELAND CONGRATULATES AMERICAN HONOURS RECIPIENTS

Mr. Daniel Rooney and Mr. John Fitzpatrick have been awarded honours by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Daniel Rooney has been awarded an honorary CBE and John Fitzpatrick an honorary OBE in recognition of their exceptional contribution to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Both men live and work in the United States.

Mr Rooney and Mr Fitzpatrick will receive their awards from British Ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald at investiture ceremonies in Washington in the near future.

British honours Commander of the British Empire (CBE) and Officer of the British Empire (OBE) are awarded on merit for exceptional achievement. The Order honours people for public service or other distinctions.

Learn more about the British Honour System by clicking HERE.

Steelers to Host 2008 Kickoff Luncheon

2008 Pittsburgh Steelers Kickoff Luncheon

• Thursday, August 28th (11 am - 1:30 pm; lunch begins at NOON) at the Pittsburgh Hilton Hotel
• presented by PNC Bank and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
• co-sponsored by WDVE and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development
• autographs by Steelers alumni and silent auction to begin at 11 am
• GREAT raffle & silent auction prizes!

For more information and to register, visit the Steelers Luncheon webpage!

TOMLIN is Pittsburgh Penguins' #1 Fan!

Or, at least, FSN Sportsbeat thinks so!

Yesterday during a break in training camp, Stan Savran presented Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin with his very own authentic Penguins jersey sporting his name and the number 1 on the back! It was a true authentic jersey with the label of authenticity sewn inside by Dana Heinze, the Pittsburgh Penguins Equipment Manager who also happens to be from Johnstown, PA (my hometown) and a HUGE Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Tomlin was spotted at numerous Penguins games last season along with Kevin Colbert and he told Stan that he loves to attend the game with "his boys."

I think Stan was expecting the coach to put the jersey on but Coach Tomlin elected not to do so!

I wonder if Kevin Colbert is asking where HIS jersey is (do you think he would settle for #2?!)!