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The NFL has only four minority coaches. Two of them – Anthony Lynn of the Chargers and Ron Rivera of Washington – canceled the practice Thursday in light of Jacob Blake’s police shooting and wrote what followed. The Dolphins, who have Brian Flores as their head coach, already had a planned day off.
The fourth, Mike Tomlin, oversaw the Steelers’ practice on Thursday.
‘We have not given any real consideration to it do not practice today, ”said Tomlin, via Mark Kaboly of TheAthletic.com.
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said the team discussed this week’s events, which have included postponed games in various sports.
“It’s not like we voted or anything,” Roethlisberger said for the practice at Heinz Field, via Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “The biggest thing for me to do specifically is listen to my African-American teammates and friends, just to get a better understanding of myself.”
Tomlin reiterated the Steelers ‘desire to support social justice and the players’ rights to be heard, while seeking real long-term change.
“We want to have an impact, more than statements,” Tomlin said. “We want to be proactive in our behavior and thoughts. I continue to appreciate the heart and mind to participate and express myself. That’s her right. They will continue to be supported by us as long as it is done with attention and with class.
“But we also understand that we have goals with our opinions… And they can be armed. We want to move forward with attention. We are happy to be part of solutions if we can be.”
