PITTSBURGH -- "Minicamp Cowher" kicked off Friday morning at the Steelers' practice facility on the South Side.

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It's the first chance for coaches to work with rookie tight end Heath Miller and the rest of the players selected in April's NFL draft.

But most of the media attention went to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who was seen posing helmetless on a motorcycle in published photos this week.

Even though he got a lecture from coach Bill Cowher, Roethlisberger won't be getting off his ride.

"He talked about being a risk taker, and I'm not really a risk taker," Roethlisberger said. "I'm pretty conservative and laid back. I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."

Roethlisberger said he only rides in groups, which he said is safer than going alone, and will decide for himself whether he wants to wear a helmet.

"Obviously, Pennsylvania doesn't think people need to," he said, referring to a state law requiring helmets that was amended in 2003.

Roethlisberger's motorcycle pictures surfaced just days after Cleveland tight end Kellen Winslow had a bike accident that will keep him out of action for a while.

Cowher said he doesn't condone Roethlisberger's off-field motorcycle activity.

"It (a pro football career) is a very small time in your life, and you've got to be very careful. You can see it documented with Kellen Winslow," Cowher said. "Not just in riding motorcycles, but where you go and who you associate with."

All players reported to the minicamp. Most players will remain in town through mid-June for voluntary coaching sessions.

Two practices were held Friday. Two more will be held on Saturday, followed by a final one on Sunday.

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