Steelers seek consistency on special teams

By Chris Adamski

Almost a decade ago, as a 35-year-old, first-time NFL head coach, Mike Tomlin didn't take long to show how much he was going emphasize special teams.

During the Steelers' first draft with him as coach, they spent two draft picks to take a punter (trading up in the fourth round to select Daniel Sepulveda). A few months later, just before the start of the regular season, the Steelers traded for Allen Rossum, a return specialist who'd require a roster spot and brought no value on defense or offense.

Despite the priority placed on it, the Steelers' special teams results have been a mixed bag in the Tomlin era. They've cycled through punters like no one else, repeated attempts to replace Antonio Brown at punt returner have failed, and Tomlin's teams have allowed seven kickoff return touchdowns while scoring only two.

While Tomlin stresses “splash plays” from the unit, avoiding opponent big plays on special teams is just as important as creating them.

READ MORE: http://triblive.com/sports/steelers/10824322-74/steelers-teams-return

Wallace108 wrote:

the Steelers' special teams results have been a mixed bag in the Tomlin era

As with every era that I can remember, really. I guess, when it comes to STs, we just hope some guys step up, and most of all that Shmarko stays away from the ball.

How many STs coaches have we had? 2 or 3 I believe. I'd be happy if we find someone who can return punts.

Yes, the special teams need to develop consistency, like a well-formed stool...uh, never mind.