Tuesday afternoon, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin took to the media ahead of the upcoming game on Thursday against the Philadelphia Eagles. He expressed his excitement to take the team to another stadium and see their growth. He elaborated on how this will be another opportunity to see guys both young and experienced, "display and understanding of the rules" and compete.
Coach Tomlin said Mason Rudolph will start again with Dwayne Haskins and Josh Dobbs following.
— Missi Matthews (@missi_matthews) August 10, 2021
Tomlin quickly opened up his press conference to reporters and was asked numerous questions regarding specific players, starting with OG Kevin Dotson. Dotson has been in the news lately for his limited reps at training camp due to injury, but some fans have speculated that it could be more than that referring to his effort and play on the field. Tomlin put any negative takes on Dotson to rest.
"I didn't have direct eyes on what he was doing with trainers... I was pleased with the reports that I got from the people that had direct hands on him."
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WR James Washington's name came up as he's been in the news more than usual lately as well. This time, it was about his game status for Thursday. Tomlin mentioned that, "He [Washington] may miss a day or two" but he's not concerned about his overall health.
Coach Tomlin said James Washington was evaluated and might miss a day or two of practice.
— Teresa Varley (@Teresa_Varley) August 10, 2021
Staying on the offensive side of the ball, Tomlin spoke highly of OG Trai Turner.
"It's been good to watch him work and see that he's a communicator. Although he's new to us, he's done a real good job of communicating with younger players like Kendrick Green."
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As for the defense, Tomlin also expressed his excitement about continuing to learn more about LB Melvin Ingram III and what he can do, as well as gave praise to the growth and development of DL Carlos Davis. As for EDGE rusher T.J. Watt and his apparent "holdout," that didn't seem to be Tomlin's focus.
"That negotiation process is going to run its course. Some run its course faster than others. I like to focus my energy on the guys that are working."
Watch the full press conference here:
#LIVE: Coach Tomlin addresses the media ahead of our game against the Eagles. https://t.co/wuo8if3nGx
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 10, 2021
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