Preparing for Training Camp: Save the Dates

Tuesday, July 22nd marked the deadline for players who were tagged/tendered (i.e. franchise player or transition player) to sign a new contract. That deadline passed with nary a word about so much as a negotiation with the Steelers' transition tackle, Marvel Smith. As a result it appears that the eight year veteran will be leaving the team at the end of the 2009 season.

As with every summer there are multiple dates that loom large on the horizon, and without further adieu who are some of them:

• July 27, 2008: Steelers open training camp


• August 3, 2008: Hall of Fame Game (Colts v. Redskins)


• August 8, 2008: Eagles v. Steelers


• August 14, 2008: Steelers v. Bills (@ Toronto)


• August 23, 2008: Steelers @ Vikings


• August 26, 2008: Roster Cutdown Day (75 players)


• August 28, 2008: Panthers v. Steelers


• August 30, 2008: Roster Cutdown Day (53 players)


• August 31, 2008: Practice Squad established (maximum eight players)


• September 7, 2008: Opening Day