The Pittsburgh Steelers finally brought in four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers last week, with the veteran quarterback present for this week’s mandatory minicamp. Unfortunately for the Steelers, another star was nowhere to be seen this week.
There was a T.J. Watt-sized elephant in the room, as the star pass rusher elected to skip minicamp as he continues to undergo contract negotiations with the franchise. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin discussed Watt potentially being back by training camp, and did not give a vote of confidence that things would be resolved by then.
“I’m optimistic we’re going to get things done because we got two sides that want to get things done. When that’s going to occur… I do not know,” Tomlin said on Thursday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Fans reacted to Tomlin’s statement on social media.
“Boy he sure doesn’t know a lot for being the head football coach for an NFL franchise. No idea when the QB was coming. No idea when the best defensive player in the league will show up. Mike Tomlin just walking around with his fingers crossed pretending to lead the team,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“TRADE HIM TO WASHINGTON FOR TERRY AND A FIRST,” one Steelers fan implored.
“It’ll be a non issue until training camp. Right now it’s just contract negotiations and boring summer NFL filler space,” another fan added.
It’ll be interesting to see how the situation plays out.