The Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most consistent organizations in the NFL for the past 50 years. Their have been many factors attributing this fact. From only having three head coaches, to having one of the most respected ownership groups in all of sports. It starts from the top and trickles down to its players.
Mike Tomlin leads this team with a simple three word motto, “The Standard is the Standard”. But what does that mean? To me it means, no matter the situation, no matter the adversity you’re facing, you should attack each and every task with the same level of passion, and intensity.
The standard in Pittsburgh is championship level, always.
We have made several roster moves:
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) October 23, 2020
▪️ Released P Dustin Colquitt
▪️ Placed LB Devin Bush on the Reserve/Injured List
▪️ Promoted DE Henry Mondeaux to the 53-man roster
▪️ Signed LB Ray Wilborn to the practice squad@BordasLaw https://t.co/fyEw5vzp8W
When this simple phrase is translated to replacing injured, or underperforming players, it means the next man up is expected to perform at the level of the player they are replacing. While more often then not, the Steelers show off their unmatched ability to find and develop players to do just that. Other times, they’re caught with their pants down.
Time will only tell whether Robert Spillane will play the role of hero or scape goat. When you look back in recent history you can find two occasions where the Steelers had to replace linebackers. One was for the better and is a starter to this day, when Vince Williams replaced an injured Larry Foote. The other was when the Steelers scrambled to find production from anyone after Ryan Shazier went down with a spinal chord injury.
Now watching the likes of Le’Veon Bell signing with the Chiefs, Antonio Brown Signing with the Buccaneers, or even watching the Ravens make a list of high end moves might be frustrating to many members of Steelers nation. This is the Steelers philosophy. And unless it’s absolutely necessary, they won't add anyone to this linebacker room.
They haven't had a losing season since 2003, so we know it works. But on the other hand they haven't won a Super Bowl since 2008. Let’s just hope the non-move at linebacker is more savvy than stubborn.
What do you think? Are you frustrated by the Steelers lack of moves at linebacker following the Devin Bush injury? Let us know down in the comments below.