The Pittsburgh Steelers defense has had an up-and-down 2022 season, reflective of the team overall. In the Week 14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the defense was unable to stop the run all day long. That's despite the Ravens being down to their third-string quarterback as well, as running back JK Dobbins returned from injury to have a huge day.
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The loss dropped the team to 5-8, leaving the playoff hopes looking quite slim. With just four games left now, many have called for more playing time for a lot of the youngsters throughout the team. On defense, those potential guys could include DeMarvin Leal, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Mark Robinson. It would be wise to give those guys a look and see what head coach Mike Tomlin has in those guys. It seems first-year defensive coordinator Teryl Austin isn't exactly interested in playing the young guys just for the sake of their development. Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review was able to capture Austin's comments on Thursday:
"No, we are in the business of trying to win a game," Austin said to reporters via Adamski. "I am not interested in seeing who's on next year's varsity squad. We are trying to win a game."
Well, there's your weekly reference to the "varsity squad." Tomlin's used this phrase for years, and it seems Austin has picked it up as well. After Keith Butler and the Steelers moved on from each other in the off-season, Austin was hired as the team's new defensive coordinator. It's come with mixed reviews, as the defensive unit has faced a few key injuries in the 2022 season. Austin will likely get at least one more year as DC, given the fact that he's not even finished with his first season.
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 22: Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin of the Pittsburgh Steelers reads his play sheet during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)
Coaches will keep fighting until the end, which is how it should be. With that being said, it's the perfect opportunity for the defense to see what they have in Loudermilk and Robinson. Those two have gotten limited looks this season, while veterans ahead of them have struggled immensely in the front seven of the defense. In fact, after an impressive training camp in Latrobe, Robinson hasn't seen a single defensive snap in 2022 despite the injuries at inside linebacker. Instead, he's played just five special teams snaps.
Who knows, Austin may just be sending a message to the young guys to keep working. He did also tell reporters that several guys will get snaps with Chris Wormley out for the season. Loudermilk and Leal were both mentioned as guys that will get looks there. With Tyson Alualu's tenure in Pittsburgh coming to an end, Austin may as well try the two youngsters along his defensive line.
What do you think of these comments made by Teryl Austin? Do you think he's just trying to send a message? Which of the young guys do you want to see get more playing time down the stretch? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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