There's never been any doubt about Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin's ability to coach. Since taking over in 2007, he has never had a losing season, which is a remarkable feat in the NFL. Tomlin's consistency and ability to get the best out of his players week in and week out have made him one of the league's most respected coaches.
This season, Tomlin's leadership has been on full display, especially in his relationship with young cornerback Joey Porter Jr. While Porter Jr. has had his share of challenges. He is undeniably one of the Steelers' most dynamic playmakers on the defensive side of the ball, and Tomlin has been great at harnessing Porter's' strengths, guiding him, and helping him mature both on and off the field.
Ahead of the second episode of "AFC North Hard Knocks", which airs Tuesday night, the NFL posted a clip showcasing Tomlin giving advice to Porter. In the footage, Tomlin's ability to connect with Porter and offer both guidance and support garnered significant attention.
"Sometimes that comes with being you. Sometimes I think you care more about it than I do." Tomlin said. While Porter responded, "All cause, shoot, I want to be great at the end of the day."
Tomlin added, "You gonna be great. But you ain't gonna be great today. You better push forward it today. But it ain't gonna happen as quickly as you'd like. That how [explicative] go."
Check it out the full interaction:
Mike Tomlin has firmly established his legacy in Pittsburgh and across the NFL over the course of his coaching career. His remarkable ability to build strong relationships with his players and motivate them has been one of his most distinguishing attributes.
Whether it's guiding young talent or helping veteran players maximize their potential, Tomlin's leadership has consistently been a driving force behind the Steelers' success.
This season, the Steelers find themselves in a strong position, sitting at 10-3 and firmly in first place in the AFC North. With a massive showdown against the 11-2 Philadelphia Eagles on tap for Week 15, Tomlin and his team are primed for another pivotal stretch run.
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This story was originally published December 10, 2024, 11:17 AM.