Pittsburgh, PA — The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense didn’t just get torched on the field — it got buried off it. Literally.
In one of the most jaw-dropping fan moments of the NFL season, Steelers fans at a Week 9 tailgate held a mock funeral for their team’s defense, complete with a black casket, mourners dressed in black and gold, and even a “priest” giving a heartfelt eulogy.
“Today, we lay to rest what was once the pride of Pittsburgh,” one fan declared through a megaphone as others bowed their heads in mock silence. “Gone but not forgotten — our defense, taken too soon by missed tackles and blown coverages.”
The video, originally posted on X (formerly Twitter), exploded across social media — racking up over 2 million views in just 24 hours.
While it was clearly tongue-in-cheek, the message behind the humor was obvious: frustration. Pittsburgh’s once-feared defense, led by stars like T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, has struggled mightily this season — particularly against the run and in late-game situations.
“This is Pittsburgh. We love defense. It’s what defines us,” said one lifelong fan in the viral clip. “When that dies, we mourn. But we also believe in resurrection.”
Even national sports outlets picked up the footage, with some calling it “the most Pittsburgh thing ever.” Others saw it as a brutal but accurate reflection of where the team stands after another disappointing loss.
Head coach Mike Tomlin was asked about the viral video during Monday’s press conference. His response? Classic Tomlin.
“I don’t do funerals. I do work. We’ll fix it.”
Fans online immediately turned that quote into a rallying cry, posting memes with the caption: “Tomlin doesn’t bury — he rebuilds.”
Still, one thing is certain — the Steelers’ defense has gone from legendary to lamented, and the fanbase is done pretending otherwise.
🔥 Whether it’s a wake-up call or just good-natured trolling, Steelers Nation has made one thing clear: something has to change — fast.
#HereWeGo #SteelersNation #SteelersDefense #NFLWeek9 #MikeTomlin #ViralNFL
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