According to Adam Schefter of ESPN on Twitter, Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Mike Adams weighed in at 323 pounds when he arrived at training camp on Friday. Schefter also says Adams\’ core strength is returning just seven weeks after being stabbed during an attempted carjacking on the Southside.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Friday evening during his first training camp press conference that Adams had been cleared medically despite reports suggesting the Ohio State product would start off training camp on the PUP list.
On Saturday, Adams took his place at the starting right tackle spot as he attempts to put not only the stabbing incident behind him, but his rookie season that ended with him being placed on injured reserve with an ankle injury as well.
As we have noted several times over the course of the offseason, Adams presence on the field in 2012 boosted the Steelers running game and there is no reason to expect that won\’t carry over into 2013. The biggest question mark surrounding Adams as he heads into his second season is whether or not he can improve his pass protection.
Last year, Adams got off to a rough start as he was forced to start at left tackle in the first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles and his play in that game showed he was not ready to unseat Max Starks. Once the season got underway Adams was on the sidelines as a backup until injuries forced him to start in week seven at right tackle
This year, at least Adams has known for a while that he will be the starting right tackle in 2013 so that he could prepare accordingly. While his return from the lacerated colon he suffered during the early June incident shouldn\’t be regarded as a miraculous, it does go to show he put in the work needed to have himself ready to go when training camp opened.
Had Adams still needed another week or two to get himself into football shape before taking the practice field, not much would of been said considering the circumstances. He didn\’t need that time, however, and I think that\’s a positive in his corner that probably hasn\’t been discussed enough.
