Pittsburgh Review

During a recent interview, Mike Tomlin discussed the shift from evaluation mode to preparing starters for the regular season. "You start multitasking the minute you leave Latrobe," he explained, noting that they had already begun this process as they prepared for their third preseason game.

Tomlin addressed changes in the NFL preseason schedule and how it affects preparation. Despite the longer gap between the final preseason game and the regular season opener, Tomlin stated, "Really I function the same way I functioned under the old system."

When asked about reducing the roster from 90 to 53 players, Tomlin described it as a straightforward process if managed well. "If you have a fair process and guys are given an opportunity to carve out a role or state their case for themselves... decisions are pretty obvious," he said.

Tomlin acknowledged that while internal decisions are usually clear-cut, external factors like trade discussions can add complexity. "There might be late changes because you're dealing with the totality of the market," he noted.

On who gets to influence roster decisions, Tomlin clarified that many opinions are considered but not all impact decision-making. "Art Rooney, myself, and Omar take in a lot of opinions," he said.

Regarding interactions with players being cut, Tomlin emphasized personalized communication based on individual relationships developed over time. He remarked on his approach: "I think it's insensitive... to have a cookie-cutter approach when you're talking about dealing with men."

Tomlin also touched on getting star players ready for the season. Using T.J. Watt as an example, he highlighted individualized preparation strategies: "He showed me that he didn't require a lot of physical work... His needs are somewhat minimal relative to others."

Discussing Minkah Fitzpatrick's performance as a ball-hawk with notable statistics including 17 interceptions in 71 games for Pittsburgh, Tomlin praised his unique skills: "He has soft receiver-like hands... really good and disciplined eyes."

Tomlin also mentioned scenarios where acquiring top-tier players close to the regular season could still result in immediate contributions. He cited Fitzpatrick's quick adaptation after being traded just days before playing against San Francisco.

As for deciding who plays in final preseason games versus previous ones or personal policies, Tomlin aims to balance giving regulars experience while providing opportunities for others vying for roster spots.

In conclusion, despite varying public perceptions based on preseason performances compared to last year’s excitement or current angst among fans, Tomlin maintains perspective: “Preseason is preseason; Regular Season is regular season.”