According to reporting from DK Pittsburgh Sports, a wide list of veterans appeared for the first day, including major names such as Joey Porter Jr., Jaquan Brisker, Pat Freiermuth, Nick Herbig, DK Metcalf, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Patrick Queen, Derrick Harmon, Asante Samuel Jr., and Jalen Ramsey. The attendance signals a strong work ethic from the roster as McCarthy begins his tenure in Pittsburgh.
One notable absence from the first day was Aaron Rodgers, a future Hall of Fame quarterback who remains a free agent. Rodgers’ presence would have represented a significant leadership front, but his status is constrained by his free-agent eligibility and current team status. Despite the gap at quarterback, the Steelers’ leadership appears focused on leveraging the talent currently in-house and any potential return from Rodgers remains uncertain.
Analysts note that McCarthy is attempting to build on the enduring foundation laid by former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, whose two-decade run established a high standard of consistency and success. McCarthy brings a proven track record from his time with the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, coupled with Pittsburgh’s strong 2025 season performance, to pursue continued improvement and potential postseason success in 2026.
With a robust veteran presence on the first-day roster and McCarthy’s experience guiding top-tier teams, the Steelers appear poised to capitalize on opportunities ahead. The early momentum could help set the tone for a productive offseason program as Pittsburgh aims to translate practice effort into on-field results next season.
