Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Delivers Brief Message on Micah Parsons Before Week 8
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin recently addressed the impact of Micah Parsons, the new edge rusher for the Green Bay Packers, ahead of their Week 8 matchup. Parsons, who missed last season’s faceoff between the Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys due to an ankle injury, is expected to play at Acrisure Stadium this Sunday night.
Tomlin’s Praise for Micah Parsons
Responding to a question about whether Parsons ranks alongside elite edge rushers like T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett, Tomlin affirmatively stated, “Most certainly.” He added a light-hearted note, referencing Parsons’ impressive contract, which underscores his status in the league.
Parsons’ Record-Setting Contract
Micah Parsons recently joined the Packers on a monumental four-year, $186 million contract, which averages $46.5 million annually. This figure surpasses both T.J. Watt’s and Myles Garrett’s recent extensions:
- T.J. Watt: Three-year, $123 million extension ($41 million average).
- Myles Garrett: Four-year, $160 million extension ($40 million average).
Parsons’ Performance this Season
In his inaugural season with Green Bay, Parsons has demonstrated his prowess on the field. Over six games, he has recorded:
- 5.5 sacks
- Five tackles for loss
- 13 quarterback hits
Steelers’ Game Plan Against the Packers
Following a successful strategy against Garrett in a previous game, Tomlin hinted that the Steelers might adopt a similar approach for Parsons. However, he acknowledged that blocking Parsons presents unique challenges. “They’re two different people in terms of what makes them great in how they get to the quarterback,” Tomlin explained.
Parsons has shown remarkable consistency, achieving double-digit sacks in each of his first four NFL seasons. Last season, he had 12 sacks despite playing in just 13 games. In both 2021 and 2022, he earned first-team All-Pro selections and was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021.
Conclusion
As the Steelers prepare for their Sunday Night Football matchup against the Packers, effectively containing Micah Parsons will be essential for maintaining their defensive integrity. With both teams aware of the stakes, fans can expect a thrilling confrontation on the field.