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Brian Batko's Steelers chat: 06.21.21
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Brian Batko
2:51
Don't think those machinations have been officially confirmed yet, but I'd be surprised if they don't retain many of the 2020 COVID rules regarding rosters, from expanded practice squads to having 55 guys (48 active) on game days. I think it only makes sense, what with the longer regular season.
Rudy
2:53
I was really hoping that Hines Ward would have cought on as a coach with the Steelers similar to Joe Greene in the day.  Is there a chance of this happening down the road?  Hines can help our young WR's learn how to block, to be agressive, and to hold on to the ball once it is caught.  I believe his work ethic would catch hold like a fire with our players.
Brian Batko
2:55
I think there's always a chance. But they've already got a pretty good former NFL wideout with more coaching experience on staff in Ike Hilliard. If Hines keeps at it in this industry he'll surely have more opportunities, maybe even here, but last I checked he was headed to Florida Atlantic's staff and I don't see him on their website.
Guest
2:57
Is there much resistance in the Steelers' locker room to getting vaccinated?  Can we reach 85% by opening day?
Brian Batko
2:59
Not according to Mike Tomlin last week, who didn't give any hard numbers but said the Steelers were among the tops in the league in that category. Not sure they'll ever give us the specifics on those statistics, but if all those protocols are enforced, I think it'd be pretty obvious who is and isn't.
Donna
2:59
Good afternoon Brian.  Any idea how much the Steelers have to spend under the salary cap?  Would the Steelers need to restructure a player’s contract to sign a free agent such as a Richard Sherman?  Thanks.
Brian Batko
3:00
They've got $7.4 million in space, per overthecap.com. That might sound like a lot, but the Steelers prefer to keep some in reserve in case emergencies arise during the season.
3:01
OK friends, that's all the time we have for today. I keep getting tornado warnings here in southwestern PA so better go batten down the hatches. What a weird phrase, right? Batten down the hatches. But in all seriousness, if things get bad out there, stay safe. Talk to you next week for my last chat before vacation.
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