Sunday’s Camp Buzz: Gradkowski back on the field; Tyler Murphy showing potential; Timmons Latest

Backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski being activated off the PUP list was a welcomed sight for the Steelers today, though, the veteran QB was slowly worked into the mix today. Gradkowski has been dealing with arm fatigue since May and began camp on the PUP list. The Steelers have not been concerned about the injury.

“Bruce had been working quite a bit at the end of last week,” Mike Tomlin said after practice. “Probably the reason we didn’t bring him back last week [because] it was a short week. Obviously good to have him out.”

If Gradkowski stays healthy, Landry Jones workload will start to lessen but Steelers coaches have been pleased with Jones development.

“He’s gotten significant extra work because of what’s been going on with Bruce, and it’s safe to say he’s taken advantage of that,” Tomlin said of Jones.

–QB/WR Tyler Murphyx is starting to show some intriguing ability at wide receiver. The 6-2, 215-pound receiver had an excellent day in making plays at wideout. After a tough grab, one of many on the day, Tomlin yelled to the sideline “that kid’s starting to show some wide receiver traits.”

Murphy had two receptions for 21 yards vs the Jaguars.

— Some chatter in Saint Vincent today that Lawrence Timmons has turf toe, though Mike Tomlin didn’t call the injury significant.

“I wouldn’t tag significant on it,” Tomlin said. “I like Lawrence, so I’m going to take care of Lawrence.”

— Mike Mitchell and Shamarko Thomas worked together with the first team for just the second time in 14 camp practices. It’s not real important at this time of the year for starters to always be out there in camp but it is important for Mitchell and Thomas to be out there together.