Steelers notebook: Punting job back in Berry's control
With the release of rookie Will Monday, Jordan Berry officially locked up the No. 1 punter job.
Berry became the Steelers' punter at the end of camp last season when, after a preseason-long competition, incumbent Brad Wing was traded to the New York Giants.
“This was totally not as stressful as last year because at that point I had no idea what was really going on,” said Berry, who averaged 42.6 yards on 59 punts last season. “But this year is also, from that point of view, it's a bit more relaxing, but at the same time you've got to go play football.”
Berry by far outperformed Monday during practice and in games, giving him a chance to become the first Steeler to hold the job of punter for two consecutive full seasons in the Mike Tomlin era.
“Definitely this offseason I felt like I was really able to improve quite a bit and have been able to sort of translate some of that work I put in to the game situations so far this preseason,” Berry said. “It's been really pleasing, and hopefully I can keep that up the rest of the year.”
‘Mr. Everywhere'
The placing of rookie tackle Jerald Hawkins on season-ending injured reserve solidifies the security of a roster spot for Chris Hubbard. Hubbard is considered a guard but has served as a “swing” backup at literally every position along the offensive line. He even played some tight end last season.
“Mister Everywhere,” Hubbard said with a smile. “That's what it is.”
Unlike last year, when the role evolved throughout the season, the Steelers have made it a point to get Hubbard practice reps and playing time at positions other than guard.
“I played a little tackle last year,” Hubbard said, “but this camp I am getting more practice reps — a lot more practice reps there.”
Don't cross the Moats
They were all over the Steelers locker room Sunday and Monday — on players' backs, hanging in lockers, folded in stalls: Black and gold “Don't Cross The Moats” T-shirts.
Arthur Moats, the Steelers veteran linebacker, brought a supply to hand out to teammates. The shirts, which are available to the public at www.26shirts.com , are in the midst of a third release being sold to benefit families in need.
Though fan purchases are passed along to individual families, the proceeds from Moats' bulk order went to Ronald McDonald House Charities.
The 26 Shirts company was established in Buffalo, where Moats' NFL career began, though it now has a headquarters in Pittsburgh, too.
Grimble fights for job
Tight end Xavier Grimble has tried to latch on with three different teams. This time, he hopes to make the most of an opportunity afforded him by the physical setbacks of free-agent signee Ladarius Green.
“If someone is hurt for whatever reasons, there are opportunities, but it's just the nature of this business,” said Grimble, a USC product. “I think I add athleticism to the offense, and I can be a threat in the passing game in the red zone.”
At times, Grimble has shown flashes of been a capable backup behind second-year tight end Jesse James. But he has pressed some during the preseason as he dropped a few passes in practice and games.
“It's been an uphill battle sometimes,” said Grimble, competing for a job with David Johnson and Paul Lang. “I've been fighting to get a roster spot, but no one has been harder on me than me because I expect a lot from myself. Sometimes, that can be a hindrance, which prevents you from playing free.”
Burns expects to play
Cornerback Artie Burns, the Steelers' No. 1 draft pick, said he is set to make his debut in the preseason finale at Carolina on Thursday night.
Burns has been sidelined with a couple of nagging injuries, including a sore hip.
“I'm ready to go because it'll be my first game rep,” Burns said. “I'm looking forward to it and getting a feel for being out there. I'm not sure how much I'm going to play. I just know I'm going to get some work.”
Chris Adamski and Ralph N. Paulk are Tribune-Review staff writers. Reach Adamski at cadamski@tribweb.com and Paulk at rpaulk@tribweb.com.
