Steelers Training Camp Draws Fans from Near and Far
Steelers fans are converging on Saint Vincent College, a pilgrimage that spans western Pennsylvania and beyond, as the team kicks off its training camp.
Long lines of cars formed hours before the 1:55 p.m. practice began. One dedicated fan traveled all the way from Missouri, while another flew in from Texas, both eager to uphold a cherished tradition among Steelers supporters.
"This is my 10th year coming up here," remarked Kenneth Mullin from North Versailles, who arrived at the venue around 5:45 a.m. on Thursday.
Brayden Strause, who works in Denton, Texas, shared his family's long-standing commitment: "My family's been doing this every year for like the past 18 years or so, so I wouldn't miss it." He added, "It's a whole family thing. I came in from the hospital in Steelers stuff, so there's just no way we'd ever miss this."
Fans expressed optimism about the upcoming season, eager to witness the new team's dynamics on the field. The Steelers have had a busy offseason following another first-round playoff exit.
Key players such as quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields have departed, along with wide receiver George Pickens, rusher Najee Harris, defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, and Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
In a bid to revitalize the roster, the Steelers have welcomed quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver DK Metcalf, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and tight end Jonnu Smith.
Star linebacker T.J. Watt, who recently signed a three-year contract worth $123 million—making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history for the second time—acknowledged the importance of building rapport with his new teammates during training camp.
"There's going to be a lot of people to get to know and talk to," Watt noted. "It's just fun. It's a fun time of year," he added, reflecting the excitement that permeates the atmosphere as fans and players alike gear up for the season ahead.
