Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Tomlin comments on Bryant suspension, says practice will determine role

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, acknowledged the Martavis Bryant suspension this week, giving slight insight to the receiver’s future with the team.

“He did a nice job dealing with the suspension,” Tomlin told reporters. “I’m comfortable with the trajectory of where he is.”

Bryant, who didn’t play in the Steelers’ last game in Week 7 because of team issues self-asserted by a social media post, is still working his way back onto the team. After spending the last week on the practice squad, Bryant’s role on the team was uncertain and somewhat remains that way.

With Tomlin indicating that this week’s practice will decide Bryant’s role this upcoming Sunday, the receiver isn’t guaranteed anything moving forward.

This isn’t Bryant’s first offense. Calling out former Steelers wide receiver, Sammie Coates, when Pittsburgh drafted JuJu Smith-Schuster, before he was even reinstated by the NFL for a year-long substance abuse suspension, the wideout has made it known he isn’t afraid to speak his mind.

For some, that just comes with the attitude of the NFL. These players have overachieved their entire life and need to maintain somewhat of a cocky attitude to continue striving. However, for others, it’s a distraction the Steelers clearly don’t need.

At 6-2, Pittsburgh isn’t really in desperate need of bringing Bryant back immediately. With the trade deadline behind them, moving him isn’t an option. So, gradually involving him back into the offensive gameplan is the best plan of attack for the Steelers.

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Either way, Bryant will likely be back on the field this upcoming week. Which leaves only one question – how much playing time does he actually deserve?