Who are some sleepers from 2022 Steelers training camp?
As Pittsburgh Steelers training camp turns from practices to game preparation for the first preseason matchup on the calendar, there are a number of players who have stood out. Traditionally, the term “camp phenom” was coined by former Steelers players and media members as a means to point out players who fans fall in love with, but also happen to be getting noticed during their days at Saint Vincent College.
In honor of those who came up with the phrase, Craig Wolfley and the late Tunch Ilkin, I will use the word “sleepers” here to illustrate players other than established stars. I would also like to note those who are still relatively “unknown” in the grand scheme of things.
Here are some players who have stood out as camp unfolded.
Allen Robinson & Calvin Austin
Beyond Diontae Johnson and George Pickens, who are household Steelers fantasy names, some fans may be wondering what else the Steelers have up their sleeves at the wide receiver position. Look no further than two reclamation projects.
First, Robinson, a veteran who had a down year with the Rams last year, appears to have great synergy with QB Kenny Pickett. Robinson looks like the player of old and could surprise this season.
As for Austin, who missed all of his rookie 2022 season with injuries, he has been all over the field, catching everything that comes his way while also taking over the first-team reps as the Steelers kick and punt return specialist.
Both receivers make Pittsburgh’s receiver group that much deeper.
Tre Norwood
Norwood has had a surprisingly under-the-radar camp thus far. Sandwiched on depth chart between All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick and veterans Damontae Kazee and Keanu Neal, he would appear to be a distant option for playing time, but with Fitzpatrick and Kazee both having missed time throughout camp, the spotlight has been on Norwood who has received a ton of snaps in their absence.
Norwood has held his own against the likes of Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and others. He’s a versatile player who will factor in with special teams and should make the bottom half of the roster as the team’s fourth or fifth option at the safety position.
Kendrick Green
It’s Green mania in Latrobe, as the former Maurkice Pouncey replacement – who didn’t live up to expectations as a center or guard on the offensive line – has now transitioned into playing a number of backfield roles.
You can find Green set off the edge as a tight end or lining up as a fullback.
His athleticism has been showcased and combined with his physical size, he’s been a monster thus far in small showings, throwing blocks, catching passes, and yes, even running the football in short yardage situations.
It would appear that Matt Canada has found a new role that fits for Green and he is totally embracing it. So much so, that the energy given off while the big guy rumbles has been an infectious positive during camp.
Darnell Washington
He’s listed as a similar size as his tight end peers Pat Freiermuth and Zach Gentry, but the rookie out of Georgia looks massive when standing in the huddle.
Dubbed “Mount Washington” this offseason, the tight end floats around the field with ease and appears to be a capable pass catcher, and naturally a huge redzone target.
Combine that with his willingness – and uncanny ability – to block, and it’s no surprise that Washington has turned heads at Saint Vincent’s College.
Miles Killebrew
Killebrew won’t show up in many tweets or analytical breakdowns, but the veteran safety is doing all of the things he needs to be doing in camp.
As a special teams ace he’s often overlooked at playing in the defensive backfield, but like Norwood, #28 has shown up several times with big plays.
