Mike Tomlin has publicly defended Mason Rudolph against Myles Garrett’s allegation that the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback called Garrett a racial slur, and Tomlin feels Rudolph should do whatever he feels is necessary to protect his reputation.
Tomlin was asked about the ongoing feud between Rudolph and Garrett on ESPN’s “First Take” Monday morning, and the Steelers coach said he “took offense” to Garrett claiming Rudolph used a racial slur when the two players got into a physical altercation last season. Tomlin then hinted that he believes Rudolph should consider suing Garrett.
"I took offense to it…I thought it was appropriate that Mason was properly defended…These accusations are serious. Not only in terms of Mason Rudolph's character but his professional pursuits." — Mike Tomlin on 'First Take' about Myles Garrett's accusations
— Chase Williams (@chasepwilliams) February 17, 2020
"I would expect him to do what was appropriate in terms of protecting his name and reputation and I would do so aggressively and I don't blame him." — Mike Tomlin on what he expects Mason Rudolph to do after the Myles Garrett accusations
— Chase Williams (@chasepwilliams) February 17, 2020
In an interview with ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” that aired on Saturday, Garrett stood by his claim that he heard Rudolph use a racial slur and said the quarterback called him a “stupid N-word.” As he did the first time the allegation surfaced, Rudolph vehemently denied using the term and said Garrett is trying to assassinate his character. Rudolph’s lawyer then published a statement on Twitter that strongly hinted legal action will be taken.
Tomlin seemed upset with not only Garrett but also with how “Outside the Lines” covered the story. Garrett did not say Rudolph used a racial slur until he appealed his suspension in front of the NFL, which was a week after the incident. He claims he didn’t bring it up sooner because he didn’t want it to seem like he was trying to justify his actions, which included dangerously bashing Rudolph in the head with a helmet.
The NFL reportedly interviewed referees and used camera angles to investigate the claim and found no evidence that Rudolph used a racial slur. Garrett hinted in his “Outside the Lines” interview that he believes the NFL may have tried to cover up what Rudolph said, and the league has since issued a statement refuting that.
