Home » Sports » NFL » Pittsburgh Steelers

“We Were Under Attack”: Mike Tomlin Reveals Bitter Feelings as Ex-HC Calls Out NFL’s Rule Change for Villainizing Steelers

Mike Tomlin has coached plenty of great defenses in the Steel City, but when asked to pick his best, he doesn’t hesitate to point to the 2008–2010 unit. That was built with LB James Harrison, LB LaMarr Woodley, and NT…

By Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker · Essentially Sports

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 11:06 PM

Key Things to Know

Mike Tomlin revealed the Steelers felt their style of play was under attack during the 2010 rule changes.
Tomlin considers the 2008–2010 Steelers defensive unit the best he has coached in his career.
The NFL increased fines and suspensions for helmet-to-helmet hits mid-season in 2010.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin recalled feeling "under attack" when the NFL introduced stricter player safety rules during the 2010 season. Speaking to Chris Simms, Tomlin praised his 2008–2010 defenses, featuring James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, and Casey Hampton, as the best he ever coached. He noted that their aggressive style directly influenced the league's clampdown on helmet-to-helmet hits.

While Tomlin admitted he initially hated the changes, he now appreciates the increased safety as a father of former college football players. The 2008 Super Bowl-winning Steelers defense led the NFL in points and yards allowed, while the 2010 unit reached another Super Bowl despite heavy league fines, including a $75,000 penalty on Harrison.

Read the full article on Essentially Sports