At a Glance
- Mike Tomlin resigned as Steelers head coach on Jan. 13, ending a 19-season run.
- He departs as the NFL’s longest-tenured head coach, with two Super Bowl trips and one title.
- The move came one day after Pittsburgh’s 30-6 wild-card loss to Houston.
- Why it matters: The Steelers now hunt for only their fourth coach since 1969.
Mike Tomlin stepped down Tuesday, closing the book on nearly two decades roaming the Steelers sideline and leaving the franchise searching for a new leader.
The Exit
Tomlin, 53, informed the club of his decision hours after the Steelers’ 30-6 wild-card defeat in Houston. The loss ended Pittsburgh’s season and, as it turned out, Tomlin’s tenure.
“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team,” Tomlin said in a statement. He thanked ownership for steady support and saluted the fan base.
“I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team.”
By the Numbers
- 13 playoff appearances
- 8 division titles
- 3 AFC Championship games
- 2 Super Bowl appearances
- 1 Lombardi Trophy captured in 2009
Tomlin took charge in 2007 at age 34 and became the league’s longest-tenured head coach. His 2008 squad won Super Bowl XLIII against Arizona, making him the youngest coach to win a ring at 36.
Team president Art Rooney II praised Tomlin’s impact in a separate statement.
“Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years,” Rooney said. “It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin.”
Contract Left on the Table
Tomlin’s extension signed after the 2023 season ran through 2027, according to The Athletic. Walking away now leaves guaranteed money on the table, underscoring the finality of his choice.
Post-Game Tension
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers bristled late Monday when pressed about Tomlin’s future.
“I’ve talked extensively about how I feel about Mike,” Rodgers said. “And I just did in that f—in’ answer. Thanks.”
He then left the podium.
Tomlin himself offered little hint after the loss.
“I’m not even in that mindset as I sit here tonight,” he said. “I’m more in the mindset of what transpired in this stadium and certainly what we did and didn’t do. Not a big-picture mentality as I sit here tonight.”
Instant Reaction
News of Tomlin’s availability turned heads around the league. Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti reacted bluntly when informed during a press session.
“Holy s— wouldn’t that be awesome?” Bisciotti said to laughter. “Only if John [Harbaugh] takes the Pittsburgh job.”
Harbaugh, 63, was fired by Baltimore on Jan. 6 after 18 seasons.
Next Steps
The Steelers will launch a search that history shows they do not undertake often. Since 1969, only Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher, and Tomlin have held the top job, creating massive expectations for whoever steps in next.
Key Takeaways
- Tomlin exits with a Super Bowl ring and the longest active coaching tenure in the NFL.
- His decision arrives one day after a lopsided playoff defeat and leaves years on his contract unused.
- Pittsburgh faces a rare coaching transition, having employed only three head coaches over the past 55 years.
