Steelers' DK Metcalf Explains Mindset After Urgent Issues From Week 1

The Pittsburgh Steelers were able to secure the win in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, but it was far from pretty. The offense, in particular, had more negatives than positives shown on the game film. Despite going against a depleted unit, it just could not move the ball forward consistently. One touchdown came directly from the defense, and the other was set up by an interception that allowed Pittsburgh to start the drive in field goal range. The offensive line could not hold up, as nearly everyone on that front had a rough game. 

The other big issue was the concerning number of drops, particularly from top receiver DK Metcalf. He had a few balls go through his hands, even though one incompletion should have been called for defensive pass interference. Speaking of which, the receiver had a pair of flags thrown on him for offensive pass interference, which only made the whole game even worse. 

Metcalf was clearly upset about the whole ordeal after the game since he refused to speak to the media, but he has moved on. After Thursday's practice, he spoke with Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and explained how he feels about that rough showing in Week 1.

"'That's crying over spoiled milk,' is the saying I like to use," Metcalf explained. "I don't do that."

Metcalf also mentioned how there are frustrations in the locker room in general from the rough performance, as he and Roman Wilson both had their fair share of struggles. However, he is expecting a big turnaround in Week 2 with the two receivers making these plays and not letting it slip through their fingers. Hopefully, he's right, because if he's not, serious conversations will have to be had.

When they get those opportunities, they will have to take full advantage of them, since there won't be nearly as many of them as there were against the Falcons. Christian Gonzalez is a world-class cornerback, and he will most likely be focused on limiting Metcalf. It's not going to be an easy day for the Steelers' offense, so these receivers can't afford to have these big drops. 

On top of that, receiver Michael Pittman Jr. was reportedly absent from practice on Thursday, so his ability to play against the New England Patriots will be in jeopardy. Even if he does play, his snap count will likely be limited, which puts more pressure on both Metcalf and Wilson to perform well. This should be a great test to see if Week 1 was a fluke or if it's the new, unfortunate normal.

Steelers Have A Lot To Prove Against A Great Defense

The Steelers likely see all the narratives coming about the offense. The receivers can't catch, the offensive line can't block, and there is a severe lack of cohesion with this new group. Whenever you have a brand-new coaching staff, growing pains tend to come through early in the season, especially with the lack of reps that many of these starters had during training camp and the preseason due to injury or rest.

The hope is that all of those issues from Week 1 are a result of the growing pains. Even if that is the case, they need to get over them quickly. The offense can't afford to play most teams at the same level that it played against the Falcons. There is no doubt that there is a lot of raw talent on that side of the ball. It just needs to all come together as one cohesive unit.

For the most part, Metcalf and Aaron Rodgers were on the same page. The veteran wideout just struggled to hold on to the ball. That is a good sign for the future, as the toughest part of the game is there. He just needs to get over these mental lapses and lock in, so he can catch these passes that top receivers should make. The potential is truly there.

What do you think about Metcalf not "crying over spoiled milk" in regard to his Week 1 performance? Let us know on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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