Key Highlights
- Mike Tomlin admitted to having a “doghouse” for players who make mistakes.
- Rookie running back Kaleb Johnson was removed from kick return duties due to a mishap.
- Safety Juan Thornhill faced benching after playing only three snaps in Week 9 against the Colts.
- Players like Eli Rogers and George Pickens have found themselves outside of Tomlin’s good graces.
The Doghouse: A Pittsburgh Steelers Tradition
Mike Tomlin, the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, recently revealed a practice that has long been shrouded in secrecy. In an interview with Bob Labriola of Steelers.com, Tomlin admitted to having a “doghouse” for players who make critical mistakes or underperform. The term “doghouse,” a colloquialism often used within NFL teams, refers to a designated area where players are sent when they fall out of favor with their coaches.
Players in the Doghouse
The article highlights several instances where players have found themselves in Tomlin’s doghouse. One notable example is rookie running back Kaleb Johnson, who was removed from kick return duties following a disastrous play during Week 2. After allowing a kick to bounce over his head and into the endzone without making an effort to retrieve it, Johnson faced significant criticism.
The Seattle Seahawks recovered the ball in the endzone under the NFL’s new kickoff rules, resulting in a touchdown for them. Despite slowly returning to the backfield, Johnson does not appear to be in line for return duties anytime soon.
Another player facing scrutiny is safety Juan Thornhill. In Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts, Thornhill played only three snaps on special teams before being benched by Tomlin.
The benching was attributed to the acquisition of Kyle Dugger, a trade that saw Dugger replace Thornhill in the starting lineup alongside Jalen Ramsey. Thornhill’s reduced role could indicate a deeper issue within the Steelers’ defense, as his emergence in Week 10 against the Chargers suggests a lack of confidence from Tomlin.
Long-Term Implications
The implications for players who find themselves in the doghouse are significant. According to Tomlin, once a player is placed there, they may never leave. Players like Eli Rogers, George Pickens, and Chase Claypool have all experienced periods of exclusion from the team due to internal issues.
More recently, undrafted rookie wide receiver Roc Taylor found himself in the doghouse after a fight at practice and was subsequently released from the team.
For players such as Kaleb Johnson and Juan Thornhill, their chances of securing consistent playing time may be jeopardized unless they can prove themselves through improved performances. The doghouse serves as both a reminder to players that mistakes have consequences and a tool for Tomlin to manage his roster effectively.
The Steelers’ Approach
Mike Tomlin’s approach to managing the team is characterized by strict accountability and a focus on player development. While some may view the doghouse as a form of punishment, it can also be seen as a mechanism for encouraging players to improve and stay focused. This method ensures that players are constantly aware of their performance and the expectations placed upon them.
The existence of the doghouse within the Steelers organization highlights the intense competition for playing time in professional football. Players must perform consistently at high levels to avoid falling into this designated area, as staying out of it is crucial for maintaining a starting position or even making the roster.
