Two years ago, following a wild-card defeat to the Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin departed from a press conference in the midst of a question regarding his future. Last night, after another wild-card loss, this time to the Texans, Tomlin addressed the topic directly.
“I’m not even in that mindset as I sit here tonight,” Tomlin said, emphasizing his focus on the immediate aftermath of the game rather than the overarching questions about his future. “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.”
Eventually, the big-picture mindset will have to take center stage. Speculation surrounds Tomlin’s next steps. It seems unlikely that he would step away from coaching altogether; after all, his journey in football started as a player at William & Mary in 1994 before transitioning into coaching in 1995. Since then, he has been dedicated to the profession, and it raises the question of what else he would pursue outside of coaching.
There are whispers that a lucrative television offer may await him should he decide to pivot, but would that be enough to satisfy his competitive drive? If Tomlin feels the need for change, it’s still uncertain if switching professions would be the right course. The more likely scenario could involve a change in teams.
Such a move would surely come with complexities, including the potential for a trade, unless the Steelers were to grant him a departure without any compensation, a nod to the nearly two decades of service he has provided to the franchise. Nevertheless, the challenge remains: would Tomlin find a position with another team that rivals the prestige and support he has experienced in Pittsburgh since 2007?
Looking at the current coaching vacancies, teams like the Cardinals, Browns, Raiders, Giants, Ravens, Titans, Dolphins, and Falcons are seeking new leadership. However, would Tomlin consider any of these destinations as an upgrade over Pittsburgh? His reputation as a respected coach ensures that many teams would benefit from his expertise, but the decision ultimately lies with him.
For now, Tomlin’s immediate future remains uncertain as he contemplates whether to commit to a 20th year with the Steelers. While a long and successful tenure certainly provides compelling reasons to stay, the prospect of public frustrations—such as the “fire Tomlin!” chants heard during a Week 13 loss—may prompt him to reconsider if he wishes to continue in an environment where such discontent is voiced.
As the offseason approaches, the football community will closely watch for Tomlin’s decision, hopeful that this coaching stalwart will continue to inspire and lead his team, should he choose to remain in Pittsburgh.