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Head Coach Steelers Mike Tomlin Responds to Criticism of NFL’s Priciest Defense: “We're Not Perfect Yet — But You’ll See a Different Steelers Next Game.”

Head Coach Mike Tomlin Speaks Out After Criticism of the NFL’s Most Expensive Defense: “We’re Not Perfect Yet, But We’re on the Right Track – And in the Next Game, You’ll See a Completely Different Steelers.”

October 27, 2025 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

After yet another disappointing defensive performance in Sunday’s 35–25 loss to the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin finally addressed the growing criticism surrounding his team’s struggling defense — a unit that entered the season as the highest-paid defense in the NFL, with a combined salary cap hit of nearly $170 million.

Mike Tomlin Reaches Another N.F.L. Postseason With Fewer Black Peers - The  New York Times

Despite featuring star names like T.J. Watt ($30M/year), Minkah Fitzpatrick ($22M), Cameron Heyward ($20M), and Alex Highsmith ($19M), the Steelers’ defense currently ranks 31st in pass defense and 28th overall. It’s a stunning drop-off for a group expected to be the backbone of the franchise — and it’s now become one of the biggest storylines of the Steelers’ 2025 campaign.

The collapse against Green Bay marked the fourth time in seven games that Pittsburgh has allowed more than 31 points. Fans and analysts have begun questioning whether the issue lies in player performance or defensive coordinator Teryl Austin’s system.

Facing reporters on Monday, Tomlin didn’t shy away from the topic but defended his players’ commitment and progress:

“I hear the noise. I understand the frustration,” Tomlin said. “We haven’t been perfect — not by any stretch — but this group is working, learning, and improving every week. I still believe in the men in that room and the direction we’re heading.”

When asked if the scheme itself needed a major shake-up, Tomlin remained firm:

“We’ve adjusted, we’ve corrected, and we’ve challenged our guys. Sometimes it takes more than stats to show progress. Our defense might not have looked sharp in recent games, but I’ve seen pieces start to fit together. What we’re building is starting to take shape.”

Tomlin’s tone shifted from cautious to confident as he promised a stronger showing ahead:

“Look, I’m not here to make empty promises — I’m here to fix things. But I will say this: after today’s work, I believe what we’ve been building will show itself in the next game. You’re going to see a defense that communicates better, tackles better, and plays with that Steelers pride we all know.”

Though heavily criticized, Tomlin insisted that the Steelers remain in control of their own destiny, holding first place in the AFC North at 4–3.

“Adversity doesn’t break us — it shapes us,” he said. “And I believe this group is about to show everyone exactly who they are.”

The Steelers will face the Indianapolis Colts (7–1) next Sunday — a game Tomlin described as “the perfect test for a defense ready to rise again.”

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Tension filled the air at Lambeau Field ahead of the highly anticipated matchup with the Eagles, as head coach Matt LaFleur held an emergency late-night meeting with his core players after the offense struggled through three consecutive practices 
Tension filled the air at Lambeau Field ahead of the highly anticipated matchup with the Eagles, as head coach Matt LaFleur held an emergency late-night meeting with his core players after the offense struggled through three consecutive practices Green Bay, Wisconsin – November 8, 2025 The atmosphere at Lambeau Field is hotter than ever as the Green Bay Packers prepare for their highly anticipated showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles. However, instead of the usual confidence and focus, tension has gripped the locker room. According to multiple ESPN reports, head coach Matt LaFleur called an emergency late-night meeting with the team’s key players after the offense struggled through three consecutive practices — and the decision he made that night has left the entire Packers Nation buzzing. Sources inside the organization revealed that the meeting lasted more than two hours, beginning around 11 p.m. after the team’s final tactical walkthrough of the week. Jordan Love, Josh Jacobs, Romeo Doubs, and Christian Watson were all present. One team member described the mood: “It was intense. Coach LaFleur wasn’t making small talk — he played the practice footage and asked each player to explain why the offense couldn’t maintain consistency.” Reports indicated that LaFleur directly addressed numerous mistakes in the coordination between the quarterback and wide receivers, demanding significant changes in the team’s approach inside the red zone. “He wasn’t yelling, but his tone made everyone fall silent. This was the kind of meeting where everyone knew — either you change, or you get replaced,” a player anonymously shared. What shocked fans most was that immediately after the meeting, Matt LaFleur made a bold decision: to adjust several roles within the starting offensive lineup in an effort to create the “necessary spark” before the upcoming clash. Sources predict that rookie receiver Savion Williams may see more snaps in key situations, while Aaron Jones could be utilized more flexibly to support Love in the backfield. The next morning, when asked about the late-night meeting, LaFleur gave a short but powerful response:“I don’t care who the star is or who racks up the most yards — if we’re not looking in the same direction, we’re already losing before the game even starts. From now on, every position has to earn its place again, even those who think they’re untouchable.” Though tension still hangs over Lambeau Field, many analysts believe this psychological jolt might be exactly what the Packers need to rediscover the offensive identity that once made them so explosive earlier in the season. And if the effects of this “midnight meeting” take hold, it could mark a true turning point for Green Bay in the crucial stretch ahead.