The Pittsburgh Steelers held a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills on Thursday, and reports suggest the Steelers showed impressive physicality and composure. As both teams prepare to face off in their second preseason game on Saturday, tensions ran high during practice, but they never escalated into a full-blown fight.
Gene J. Puskar / ap photo
Bills' Sean McDermott and Steelers' Mike Tomlin shake hands after their 2019 matchup in Pittsburgh, PA.
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott, who share a history as teammates at William & Mary, made it clear they wouldn’t allow any serious altercations. Despite a few chippy moments, their leadership kept things under control.
On #Steelers punt return, #Bills gunner Kaiir Elam got into with Dorian Williams and Cory Trice. Some extra curricular activities after that’s quickly quelled.
— Christopher Carter (@CarterCritiques) August 15, 2024
Mike Tomlin to his team that was getting loud on the bench: “Stay your a**es on the sideline. You too Minkah.”
One humorous incident stood out, as reported by Steelers reporter Christopher Carter. During a punt return, tensions flared when Bills gunner Kaiir Elam got into a heated exchange with Dorian Williams and Cory Trice. Some Steelers players on the sideline began chirping, but Tomlin quickly put an end to it, calling out star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in a lighthearted but firm manner.
"Stay your a**es on the sideline. You too Minkah," Tomlin told his players.
It was clear that Tomlin wanted to avoid any further altercations during camp, especially given the deep respect he has for McDermott and his team. Earlier in camp, however, tensions flared when a brawl broke out, capturing attention across social media.
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Steelers players fight during camp after Justin Fields was hit late by Elandon Roberts.
The incident began when linebacker Elandon Roberts delivered a hard shove to quarterback Justin Fields after a play. The offensive line, believing the hit was late, took immediate offense, sparking a melee that involved nearly every player on both sides of the ball.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Reacts To His Team Fighting During Camp
Tomlin was visibly displeased after practice, clearly signaling his disapproval of the chaos that had unfolded. Of course, no NFL head coach would openly admit to being pleased with his team getting into a fight. But beneath the stern exterior, it’s hard to imagine Tomlin wasn’t a bit pleased.
Known for his love of physical, hard-nosed football, Tomlin likely appreciated seeing his offensive line rally behind their quarterback. Even if he wouldn’t say it out loud, there’s no denying that this kind of intensity is exactly what Tomlin wants to see in training camp—a team ready to fight for one another when it counts.
AP
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin looks on before a playoff game in Buffalo.
The fans weren't worried about the fight that broke out between their players. For Steeler Nation, the scuffle represented a level of intensity that had been missing from previous seasons. The passion and energy displayed during camp have been a reflection of the aggressive approach Pittsburgh has taken this offseason. With a slew of bold moves and key acquisitions, the Steelers have crafted a team that feels reinvigorated heading into the 2024 season.
The challenges that haunted them in 2023 appear to be in the rearview mirror. There’s a sense of optimism among the faithful, with many hoping this renewed energy translates to a more dynamic and entertaining offense. As the season approaches, fans are eager to see if this revamped squad can deliver on its promise and bring the excitement back to Acrisure Stadium.
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