Motivator, leader, Hall of Famer-words describing Mike Tomlin

PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – In today's age, putting out three '100s' on X is like back in the day saying you like something. That is what Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth posted on social media after the Steelers signed head coach Mike Tomlin to a three-year extension. Here is some reaction to the head coach being around through the 2027 season.

"I've very happy for him," Freiermuth said on Tuesday. "He's the best coach I've ever played for and I think a lot of guys in the locker room would say the same thing. We wouldn't be able to win the games that we won without him."

"He's a great leader of men. I can't say enough about him. It's definitely well earned. He's the full package in a coach that you want."

Freiermuth spoke to his leadership during the week and his knowledge of the game as big attributes. Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith said part of the reason he came to Pittsburgh is for the opportunity to work with a head coach like Tomlin.

Special teams coach Danny Smith said he's been with five organizations and he loved all five. He said he wouldn't talk bad about any of them or any of the coaches, adding about Tomlin.

"He is special," Smith said Tuesday. "I've been with great coaches. I've been with Hall of Fame coaches. I have learned a lot from a lot of people. I don't have all the answers, but I got a hell of a lot of experience. And he is special. And I love my relationship with him. I love working with him and for him and I'd do anything in the world for him."

QB Russell Wilson has had good and bad relationships with head coaches over his career. Wilson has only been with the team for a couple of months, but has big words about his new coach.

"He is one of the greatest motivators I've ever been around," Wilson said. "His ability to communicate. His ability to inspire individuals every day, no matter if you're a rookie, no matter if undrafted free agent, no matter if you're a 13-year vet like myself."

"The lessons and the things he's taught me along the way, just about life, about ball. You know, his understanding of the game, it's not just on defense or offense. He's on all sides of it. His ability to communicate that as well."

"He stops in particular moments on the field and, displays not only his passion, but his ability to communicate certain moments and why they're so significant, important throughout a season, throughout a game. And I think that's why he's a Hall of Fame coach."

"I think that's just the honor to be able to play for him and, play for this organization is a blessing."

Let's say we would all be surprised if anyone ripped Tomlin publicly, but players and coaches who have been with him or new to him praised the now 18-year Steelers head coach. Those players and coaches are going to be the ones who have to do their jobs so Tomlin can fulfill Steelers President Art Rooney's belief in his ability to get back to winning playoff games and championships.