Sun Sep 21 20:00:00 UTC 2025: **Steelers Coach Addresses Communication Issues, Praises Rookie Growth Ahead of Patriots Matchup**

**Pittsburgh, PA** – Following Sunday’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Pittsburgh Steelers are focusing on improving team cohesion and communication, Head Coach Mike Tomlin revealed this week. “We’ve got a lot of new guys on our football team, and we’ve experienced some early season attrition due to injury,” Tomlin explained, adding that these factors contributed to the team’s struggles. He emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, “There’s an expiration date on adjustments. We can’t wait too long.”

Tomlin also highlighted the significant improvement in rookie offensive tackle Broderick Jones’ performance between his first and second games, citing better detail, finish, and physicality. However, Tomlin intentionally omitted Kaleb Johnson’s name when discussing a special teams error in an attempt to prevent that play defining his entire season or career.

Looking ahead to today’s game against the New England Patriots, Tomlin spoke highly of Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel, praising his “kick-ass persona” and fundamentalist approach. He also analyzed Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ offensive tendencies, noting his use of pace and dynamic running backs. “Pace is a weapon for him,” Tomlin said, acknowledging McDaniels’ consistent success over a 15-year career.

Regarding the Steelers’ own offense, Tomlin credited Jaylen Warren’s impressive 65-yard catch-and-run to the coordinated effort of the entire team, emphasizing the “finisher’s mentality” that permeates the Steelers’ culture.

The coach acknowledged that the team is still defining standards for kickoff coverage under the new rules, noting that kicks that hit the ground tend to be more successful. He also praised the courage required of kickoff returners, who must possess “the courage to hit things at full speed.”

Finally, Tomlin assessed Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, highlighting his mobility, particularly when ad-libbing.

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