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View Full Version : Shamarko Thomas' impact still slow to develop for Steelers



stillers4me
06-02-2014, 04:39 PM
The Steelers inserted a rookie linebacker onto the first-team defense in the first week of spring workouts. Ryan Shazier, the team's first-round draft choice, and not incumbent starter Vince Williams took the reps with the starters.

And while it's completely plausible defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau will change his mind between now and the season opener Sept. 7 against the Cleveland Browns, it was impossible to ignore how the youth movement on defense appears to be happening only in select places.

With veteran safety Troy Polamalu absent in the first week of organized team activities (OTAs), it seemed like the perfect opportunity for the coaches to see what they had in second-year safety Shamarko Thomas.

But when the first-team defense lined up, 11-year veteran Will Allen was taking Polamalu's reps. Thomas, a fourth-round pick a year ago, was taking reps with the second team...........


Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2014/06/02/Shamarko-Thomas-impact-still-slow-to-develop-for-Steelers/stories/201406020074#ixzz33WJzhOh0