Steelers Set Plan To Return To Latrobe For Traditional Training Camp in 2022

The Pittsburgh Steelers had hoped to return to longtime training camp site, Latrobe, Pennsylvania for this year’s summer drills, but that plan has been put on hold until next summer. Earlier today, the team announced that the NFL did not approve their request to return to the campus of St. Vincent College in Latrobe.

Steelers spokesman Burt Lauten released a statement expressing the franchise’s disappointment with the league’s decision, saying in part: "We are disappointed we won't be holding our 2021 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. We were prepared to safely host training camp on campus with fans, but unfortunately our plan was not approved due to the NFL's COVID-19 protocols."

"We will now have training camp, which is slated to begin in late July, split between Heinz Field and the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. Once our practice schedule is finalized, we will announce plans to host fans at Heinz Field for a select number of practices" continued Lauten.

Prior to the pandemic, Pittsburgh held training camp at St. Vincent’s College the previous 54 years. During last month’s minicamp, coach Mike Tomlin was hopeful the team could return to Latrobe and was disappointed they hadn’t yet received a decision from the league, telling Steelers Wire: "We don't always get what we want when it comes to policy and global decision making and things of that nature. I had hoped to get some clarity by now, but I haven't ...

"I've got some calendars on my desk, so I'm ready for whatever. Rest assured, regardless of where we are and when we are, we'll be ready," said Tomlin.

Though their request to bunk up on the college campus was denied, Lauten anticipates a Latrobe return next season: "We appreciate the support of Saint Vincent College and the Latrobe community, and we look forward to returning to campus in 2022."

Pittsburgh and Dallas are scheduled to open training July 21st, roughly one week earlier than the rest of the league. The Steelers and Cowboys are scheduled to square off in August’s Hall of Fame Game, which allows for the earlier reporting date.