Steelers' Mike Tomlin Hears Strong Words From His Long Snapper

As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to prepare towards the start of training camp, the team finds itself with new faces at multiple positions. Arguably the most important new addition, four-time MVP and future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers, signed a one-year deal worth up to just under $20 million to be the Steelers' starting quarterback in 2025. As Rodgers continues to get situated throughout his first few months in Pittsburgh, Head Coach Mike Tomlin recently stated that Rodgers is currently focused on learning the teams' playbook, while also further developing a relationship with Pittsburgh's offensive weapons.

Rodgers has spoken very highly in regards to Tomlin in the past, as the Steelers' head coach reportedly played a major role in Rodgers' signing with Pittsburgh. Tomlin, who has been known to have an excellent connection with his players throughout his years, is an elite, veteran coach who truly knows how to get the most out of his team. Despite the extremely impressive résumé, some feel as if Tomlin's style of coaching is ruthless and rather different compared to other coaches around the league.

When asked to share his thoughts on Tomlin's work ethic and style of coaching, Steelers' long snapper Christian Kuntz weighed in on the situation.

"Everything that's said in public, and the way he acts in the locker room in front of us. Motivating, you know, he's going to get it out of you." Kuntz stated. "People call him a players coach, and yeah, obviously he's a players' coach 'cause you see how many guys want to come play with him. A player's coach, yes, but he's going to get on your a**."

Kuntz then continued to speak about coach Tomlin, highlighting how the legendary coach will evaluate and criticize anything, even down to the finer details as well.

"He is going to let you know about every single finer detail; he is going to call you out. If you are not doing your job, you are going to be held accountable."

Tomlin, who has felt major success a number of times throughout his legendary career as the Steelers' head coach, is widely considered to be one of the top coaches in the league despite his honest and ruthless style of coaching. The Steelers' coach has a history of developing excellent connections with both his players and staff, which has proved to play a pivotal role in the success throughout Tomlin's career. 

Tomlin played a major role in the teams' Super Bowl XLIII run as well, as the Steelers defeated the Arizona Cardinals which helped solidify Tomlin among the top coaches in the entire NFL. 

Kuntz's comments should not come as a surprise to many, as Tomlin's style of coaching has been known to lean more towards the assertive side. Kuntz, who is entering his fifth NFL season, is a solid long snapper who has spent his entire career in Pittsburgh so far. With two years still remaining on his contract, Kuntz is expected to be the Steelers' long snapper throughout the next few seasons until he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2027.

Steelers May Add Additional Play-making Depth For Rodgers

With Rodgers officially in Pittsburgh, Tomlin and his staff are widely expected to turn their attention towards adding depth at wide receiver behind their two top playmakers. Both DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin lll have solidifyed themselves as the Steelers' top options, as the team is expected to evaluate their options in free agency in hopes of adding depth. While many big names remain available, none may be bigger than free agent wideout Amari Cooper.

Cooper, who finds himself still without a team prior to the start of training camp, is an elite wide receiver who would instantly challenge Austin for Pittsburgh's wide receiver two (WR2) role. Cooper was involved in a midseason deal that sent him from the Cleveland Browns to the Buffalo Bills last year, as the veteran was widely considered to underperform in 2024. Cooper may come as a cheaper option as well, as the former Bill continues to enter the later stage of his career.

Another solid option who may emerge as a target for Pittsburgh is New York Jets receiver Allen Lazard. Lazard, who shined throughout his time with the Green Bay Packers and Rodgers, is a respectable veteran who has been underwhelming throughout his time with the Jets. A trade inquiry could certainly happen in the near future.

As Tomlin continues to prepare the team towards the start of training camp, fans can expect to get their first glimpse at their new quarterback practicing in full pads at the end of July. Rodgers is expected to play a crucial role throughout the 2025 season, as the veteran should quickly become a major beneficiary of having Metcalf as his top option. With Tomlin's top receiving options projected to be Metcalf and Austin, the team is expected to add depth at the position sooner rather than later.