Mike Tomlin gives Steelers black Air Force 1s before season opener

Of course, this was not just simply a nice gesture by the Steelers' head coach. This was also a message. Black Air Force 1s have become something of a social meme over the years, as outlined by this 2019 Complex article that states, among other things:

 A person that purposely purchases them is a person that cannot be trusted. You have to immediately question their motives. These folks have no regard for your safety or their own. 

Even though they made the playoffs a year ago the Steelers are still viewed as significant underdogs in the AFC and the AFC North this season. It is not a role they are typically used to being in. They seem to be embracing it.