Good Tuesday to you Steelers fans.
What I have feared happening is happening. Not that I blame any of these young men one bit because I wouldn’t want anyone telling me what to do either. But the number of players choosing to opt out of the 2020 NFL season is growing. The New England Patriots have already had five players including Dont’a Hightower choose to the skip the season. Ravens’ KR D’Anthony Thomas has also opted out. Every one of these men has their own, personal reason for not playing and we are in no position to judge. Whether this is about their families, them having other health concerns or just not wanting to risk it, it’s their choice and we need to respect it and move on with it. To this point, the Steelers have not had anyone opt out. I’ve been told there are a couple of players who have raised serious concerns but nothing further than that. I’m also going to assume guys will opt out even after things get going in Camp. I have no doubts that every player is paying attention to what is happening with the Miami Marlins and that’s raising the stakes even more.
Two Sides
If you think all Steelers are on the same page regarding things like the pandemic and the national anthem situation you’d be wrong. Case in point.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion
But do not associate this message with me, or others who will decide to kneel
Because Breonna Taylor’s killers are still free
And George Floyd and Manuel Ellis’s last words were, “I CANT BREATHE!”
BLACK LIVES MATTER! https://t.co/6gMrL9l5hl
— Zach Banner (@ZBNFL) July 27, 2020
I think the key takeaway here is that Tuitt doesn’t seem to understand what kneeling is about. I don’t believe there is any player that is “kneeling for the flag.” They are taking a knee to protest racial injustice. Big difference there.
The First Week
As veteran players begin reporting today to the Southside facility we need to know that this week will involve very little in the way of football. Between today and August 2nd, players must test negative three times. Virtual style meetings can happen and then once the week comes to an end, actual physicals are given and players are fitted for their equipment. The second week basically amounts to strength and conditioning and not much else.
The Salary Cap
One piece of reality we need to be prepared for is that the salary cap in 2021 is expected to be around $175 million which is WAY less than the $210 million that was anticipated prior to the pandemic. Let me be clear here, the Steelers will have to cut or not re-sign some players that will not sit well with many of us. With the loss of revenue expected to be significant, this is the reality we are facing. Well discuss it in more depth on the next podcast.
Our Stuff
If you’d like to get some of our stuff you can visit DC4L for tees and hoodies and RedBubble for decals, stickers and even masks!!
Have a great day Steeler Nation!
QH is presented by