It's Pittsburgh Steeler Time!

The Pittsburgh Steelers play their first game this Thursday.  However, the season for these NFL players started two weeks ago in Latrobe.  Training camp is the prime place for the rookies to get adjusted to the NFL game play, but it is also great for fans to get to meet some of their football idols.

Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp kicked off two weeks ago for its 47th consecutive season at St. Vincent College in Latrobe. Given a nod as the best training camp in the NFL by Peter King of CNN, Steelers training camp features plenty of action, the opportunity to get player autographs, and a chance to watch first-hand as the players battle for key positions. 

Among those who reported to camp was first-round draft pick David DeCastro, who signed a four-year contract, and is expected to start for the Steelers at right guard this year. Veteran Max Starks was also re-signed and will be battling rookie Mike Adams for the job at left tackle. However, the biggest news was the absence of restricted free-agent wide receiver Mike Wallace from training camp. The Pro Bowl receiver has declined to sign the one-year, $2.7 million tender offer, and the Steelers have now suspended negotiations on a long-term contract until Mike Wallace reports to camp. Also notably absent for only the second time in 15 years is recently retired Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward. 

Training camp will be fun as always for fans, but also not the same without Hines, James Farrior, Aaron Smith, Chris Hoke, Bryant McFadden, William Gay, and Daniel Sepulveda. The 2012 Steelers training camp runs from Wednesday, July 25, when the players first report to camp, through Friday, August 17th, and most afternoon practices are open to the public. The first public practice for Steelers Training Camp 2012 is Friday, July 27th.

For more information see The Steeler Guide.