Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Had A Massive Impact On Troy Stud LB Javon Solomon: 'He Made Me Understand Something'

While the Pittsburgh Steelers may not have an urgent need for another outside linebacker, bolstering depth at the position remains a valuable consideration. While it's arguable that they could benefit from additional talent in this area, their priority lies in addressing more pressing positions first.

However, there's potential for the Steelers to have their sights set on an overlooked gem in Javon Solomon, an outside linebacker hailing from Troy. Solomon's staggering 16 sacks during the 2023 season highlight his prowess as a relentless force in getting to the quarterback. Although he logged just four and a half sacks in 2022, his impressive track record includes an impressive 11 sacks in the 2021 season. Throughout his college career, Solomon has consistently demonstrated his knack for generating sacks, with his most prolific performance occurring last season.

Solomon recently made an appearance on the Up & Adams Show alongside host Kay Adams, where he discussed his standout season at Troy and his aspirations for the upcoming draft. He also recounted a recent informal conversation with Mike Tomlin during pre-draft events, underscoring his eagerness to make an impact at the professional level.

“I can give you one word: Wow. I was stunned, you know. I tell people this all the time. Before I was a player, I was a fan of the game, so I used to love to watch football and just be around it. When I’m walking away and see Mike Tomlin, I’m like hold on. This is the guy you have seen on TV for years and years.”

Solomon expressed his disbelief at encountering Tomlin in person, describing the experience as surreal. As a devoted football fan, he had spent years watching Tomlin from afar, and finally coming face-to-face with him was a truly remarkable moment.

“He brought me to the side and he whispered some stuff in my ear. It was like he made me see the game in a different light. He made me understand something that maybe you know, not all people get a grasp of. It makes you understand that people are just people, you know. I just got a good gravitational pull from him and what he was preaching was good stuff man.”

Solomon shared a humorous anecdote during his interview with Adams, recounting how his stepfather, a passionate Steelers fan himself, promptly asked Tomlin for a photo right after Solomon finished speaking with him. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the surreal experience of meeting Tomlin for Solomon.

While Solomon may not fly completely under the radar, his draft stock doesn't necessarily reflect his impressive 16-sack season. The level of competition he faced in college could be a factor in this disparity. However, his strong performance at the combine and favorable ranking by ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. as the ninth overall outside linebacker prospect suggest his potential. Despite this, most mock drafts project him to be selected in the fourth or fifth rounds, placing him firmly in the realm of day two or three prospects.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Is Very Popular Among NFL And Prospects

Tomlin enjoys widespread admiration across the league, revered as a favorite coach by many. His standing was underscored when players at the Pro Bowl voted him as one of the coaches they'd most desire to play for. This esteemed reputation has been meticulously cultivated over his impressive 17-season tenure with the Steelers, during which he's remarkably never endured a losing season.

Witnessing a promising young prospect like Solomon share his encounter with Tomlin provides insight into the kind of person he truly is. Beyond his prowess as a football coach, Tomlin exemplifies exceptional leadership and genuine compassion. He's known for his relentless efforts to make a positive impact on everyone he encounters, whether they're players under his tutelage or not. Tomlin consistently goes the extra mile to forge connections and nurture relationships with individuals, regardless of their affiliation with his team.