Steelers' Mike Tomlin names punishment for Diontae Johnson’s recent antics
Following some inexcusable in-game actions against the Bengals, Diontae Johnson only made things worse with his postgame comments. And knowing how the Steelers deal with problematic behavior, it was surprising to see Coach Tomlin address the situation on Tuesday. But what he said Johnson will have to do to make amends was even more startling: […]
Following some inexcusable in-game actions against the Bengals, Diontae Johnson only made things worse with his postgame comments.
And knowing how the Steelers deal with problematic behavior, it was surprising to see Coach Tomlin address the situation on Tuesday.
But what he said Johnson will have to do to make amends was even more startling:
"It's something he needs to answer for"
“Diontae can’t let the emotions of the previous down affect his next down,” Tomlin told reporters on Tuesday. “But I’ll give him an opportunity to address that with you guys [media]. I’ll give him an opportunity to address that with his teammates. I’m not going to add any additional color. I think plays like that are best described and outlined in those involved, and less so by guys like me. I keep my attention on challenging things that await us this week. Schematic preparation for Arizona and the readiness of this group. It’s something that he needs to answer for, and so I’ll give him an opportunity to do that. His teammates will give him an opportunity to do that.”
Now maybe this doesn't come off as overly stern, but if you know Coach Tomlin, you know these are the type of questions he typically avoids answering at all costs.
The fact that he not only addressed the situation but said that Johnson would be expected to address both his teammates and the media about his actions is telling in my opinion.
We will likely never know, but something tells me Johnson received a serious talking to by Coach Tomlin and others, probably even to the point where he was told to apologize to the rest of the team.
So don't be surprised if during player availability this week you hear a long apology and a tone that starkly contrasts the one he had during his postgame remarks.
In fact, I would be shocked if you heard anything but.
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