Logo

Steelers Rookie FB Disappears After Benching — Mike Tomlin Responds With Brutal 2-Game Suspension

0 views

In their preseason opener, the Pittsburgh Steelers were stunned when rookie FB DJ Thomas-Jones abruptly left the stadium without notice, prompting swift disciplinary action.

Steelers rookie DJ Thomas-Jones takes care of his mother off the field, but  is 'first team all-violence' on it | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

According to team sources, Thomas-Jones — an undrafted rookie out of South Alabama — appeared frustrated after being benched in the second quarter. He quietly left Acrisure Stadium without informing coaches or staff.

First-team all-violence' could be the Pittsburgh Steelers' unheralded  sleeper - pennlive.com

Such conduct not only violates team discipline but also jeopardizes Thomas-Jones’s slim chances of making the roster. In the NFL, especially for undrafted rookies, professionalism and team-first mentality are non-negotiable.

Promising Steelers TE Avoids Serious Injury - Yahoo Sports

Head Coach Mike Tomlin didn’t hold back: “You fall in line or you fall out. This is the NFL, not a hobby. We set a standard here — and if you can’t meet it, you’ll watch from the couch.”

Joe Starkey: If this doesn't warm up Mike Tomlin's seat, what will? |  Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Initially seen as a potential power option in the Steelers’ backfield, Thomas-Jones’s future in Pittsburgh now looks uncertain.

The Steelers have suspended Thomas-Jones for two games for “conduct detrimental to the team,” leaving his Week 1 roster spot hanging by a thread.

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."