Four big takeaways from Steelers training camp Day 1

One of the most anticipated groups entering camp was the offensive line, specifically who would receive the first-team reps. Steelers beat reporter Cris Carter reported that the first-team offensive line consisted of:

LT – Troy Fautanu
LG – Mason McCormick
C – Zach Frazier
RG – Spencer Anderson
RT – Dylan Cook

This starting lineup was widely expected entering camp. Broderick Jones, who was cleared to practice, worked with the second-team offensive line Wednesday. For now, this appears to be the group's starting five unless circumstances warrant a change.

Steelers reveal first-team inside linebackers

Nick Farabaugh of PennLive broke the news on the first notable development at inside linebacker. Instead of Payton Wilson lining up alongside Patrick Queen with the first-team defense, Cole Holcomb received the nod. Holcomb returned last season after suffering a career-threatening knee injury in 2023.

Holcomb was expected to challenge both Malik Harrison and Wilson for a significant role in the defense. Based on Day 1, he has done more than that, and a legitimate battle appears to be brewing at inside linebacker.

Defensive approach stands out

Mike McCarthy spoke to the media before practice and discussed several aspects of the defense. One of the biggest takeaways came when he emphasized moving personnel around to keep opposing offenses off balance. That philosophy was evident throughout practice, particularly with the Steelers' EDGE defenders.

Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham was also heavily involved during drills. One of the biggest selling points from insiders and beat writers has been McCarthy's attention to detail. Seeing that level of involvement from Graham suggests that mindset is already filtering through the coaching staff and should eventually carry over to the players.

Drew Allar starts shaky, finishes strong

Reports indicated Allar experienced an up-and-down first practice, which is to be expected from a rookie quarterback, especially one as raw as a passer as Allar. After an uneven start, however, he settled in and finished the day on a high note.

To cap the team's first practice on Chuck Noll Field, Allar closed the final team period with an 18-yard touchdown strike to Robert Tonyan. While the defense largely controlled the day, seeing the rookie quarterback respond after a slow start and finish with confidence was an encouraging sign.