The Pittsburgh Steelers are creating quite a buzz this offseason. With a slew of new acquisitions and the appointment of Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator, Mike Tomlin is visibly energized. His enthusiasm reflects a renewed determination to return to playoff victories.
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Steelers HC Mike Tomlin.
During the season, there were rumors circulating about Tomlin contemplating a departure from the Steelers. While these reports may have had some validity, it's evident that Tomlin's focus is to remain the Steelers coach for many more years. With 17 seasons under his belt as head coach, he has never experienced a losing season—an exceptional achievement in the NFL. Despite consistent regular season success however, Tomlin and the Steelers haven't clinched a playoff win since the 2016 season. As they gear up for the 2024 season, Tomlin is determined to alter that narrative.
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Former Steelers safety, Ryan Clark talks with Mike Tomlin during a game.
Former Steelers safety, Ryan Clark recently attended the NFL Annual Meetings in Orlando, FL. While there, Clark gained valuable insights into Tomlin's demeanor and actions. When he appeared on ESPN's Get Up show on Wednesday morning, he shared illuminating details about his interactions with Tomlin during his visit.
"I was down in Orlando, I was at the owners meetings, and the excitement that he has going into this season is unlike excitement I've ever seen for him. It feels like he was in the offseason heading into '08."
Clark shares a strong bond with Tomlin, stemming from his time playing under him and continuing through his post-playing career as a television analyst covering football. Having clinched a Super Bowl victory with Tomlin in 2008, Clark notes that Tomlin's current level of excitement for the upcoming season rivals that of the offseason preceding their championship win.
One of the primary reasons for this heightened excitement is the significant upgrades made to the Steelers' quarterback lineup. With the acquisition of Russell Wilson on a one-year deal, and the trade for Justin Fields, along with the addition of star linebacker Patrick Queen, Tomlin's anticipation for the season is palpable.
Clark then delved into the dynamics of the competition between Fields and Wilson. He anticipates Fields thriving in the Pittsburgh environment, citing daily encounters with the team's Super Bowl trophies as motivational fuel. Supported by offensive stars and a formidable defense, Fields is poised for success in the Steel City.
"It's not gonna be that Russell Wilson is gonna have to motivate Justin Fields to be anything, it's that Justin Fields is gonna understand what it means when you walk past those six Lombardi Trophies, how he's in a place with a guy like George Pickens on the outside, Najee Harris in the backfield, a tight end like [Pat] Freiermuth, what he can be," Clark said. "That he can truly unlock his potential."
Fields faced challenges during his tenure with the Chicago Bears, where he lacked adequate offensive support. Despite some improvement when provided with better weapons, he still encountered struggles and remains somewhat raw. However, Clark is confident that in Pittsburgh, Fields will have the opportunity to unleash his full potential.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Won His First Super Bowl In The 2008 Season
Tomlin's illustrious coaching career includes two Super Bowl triumphs—one as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl XXXVII, and the other as the head coach of the Steelers in Super Bowl XLIII.
ESPN
Steelers' Mike Tomlin (middle) celebrates winning the Super Bowl with Ben Roethlisberger (left) and Art Rooney (right).
Drawing from his intimate knowledge of Tomlin's leadership and demeanor during that memorable Super Bowl season, Clark sheds light on the current state of affairs surrounding the Steelers head coach. He underscores the palpable sense of familiarity and determination emanating from Tomlin, reminiscent of the electric energy that permeated their championship campaign.
This resurgence of vigor and purpose signifies a promising era for Steelers enthusiasts, as Tomlin, fueled by past successes and lessons learned from setbacks, sets his sights on guiding the team to a resounding playoff resurgence. Steeler Nation now shifts their focus to the draft where they are eager to see what new rookies will make the Steelers' roster in 2024.
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