The Pittsburgh Steelers took to the field for the first time of the 2023 season and emerged with a 27-17 preseason win over the Buccaneers in Tampa. Following the game, head coach Mike Tomlin had a formal media session. Usually not having questions asked of specific players by the media in attendance following a game, there was enough this time for a players mentioned article. Remember these are players where a specific question was asked during the Q&A period.

George Pickens

In his one series on Friday night, George Pickens was only targeted one time but took advantage and scored a 33-yard touchdown. Coach Tomlin was asked if he liked what he saw from the first team offense particularly with Pickens finding the endzone.

“We saw what we needed to see. It’s a good step, but we’ll keep pushing.”

Kwon Alexander

Joining the Steelers after they had a couple training camp practices under their belt, Kwon Alexander has jumped on the moving train and stood out with his performance both on the practice field and Friday night. Coach Tomlin was asked what Alexander has brought to the team since his arrival.

“You know, he’s a veteran guy, he knows what he’s doing. He brings energy, he’s highly competitive. I’m sure it’s easy to be competitive in these circumstances. You step into the bowls and stuff, but he’s highly competitive and an energy-bringer in practice situations day-to-day and I appreciate that.”

Broderick Jones

While there were a number of Steelers who only saw limited action Friday night, first round draft pick Broderick Jones spent the majority of the offensive snaps on the field. Coach Tomlin was asked about his initial impressions of Jones from the game.

“Gave him big exposure. I like his demeanor, I like how he finished. We’ll comb through specifically and look at hand usage and how he mixed up his protections and some of things that are very technical that are major components of this level of play.”

Allen Robinson II & Calvin Austin III

Two wide receivers who are expected to contribute this season who were not on the field for the Steelers last year are Allen Robinson and Calvin Austin. Coach Tomlin was asked about those two players and the speed component they bring.

“You know, everybody knows those guys can move and run and that’s why we’re excited to see what they’re capable of doing. But you know, it goes beyond just, you know, the flatline speed man. Those guys are developing skills relative to their position knowhow. And at this level when it’s good-on-good speed doesn’t win. It’s speed in combination with knowhow and skills relative to your position. Like the trajectory of both guys in that area.”

Mike Tomlin’s full interview can be seen here:

Coach Tomlin on tonight's win over the Buccaneers: pic.twitter.com/zNo4T1kyq3

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 12, 2023