Hiring a head coach in the NFL can often feel more like an art than a science, resulting in teams frequently revisiting the process shortly after claiming they’ve found their ideal candidate. This scenario is particularly relevant for the Pittsburgh Steelers, a franchise that hasn’t engaged in this process for nearly two decades since appointing Mike Tomlin.
The approach to hiring a head coach varies widely across the league and begins by assembling a list of potential candidates. While some teams may compile this list internally, others seek the expertise of external search firms. Dan Hatman, a former NFL scout, points out that these firms add value by conducting thorough vetting processes to uncover any potential legal issues that might arise with candidates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also shifted the interview landscape, with many preliminary interviews now conducted virtually. This adaptation allows teams to widen their search and access more candidates; for example, the Steelers had only five initial candidates in 2007, while in 2026, the number expanded significantly. However, the trade-off with virtual interviews is a diminished personal connection, leading industry insiders like NFL agent Bob LaMonte to draw comparisons between Zoom interviews and casual Netflix viewing—quickly ended if unsatisfactory.
Once the list is narrowed, in-person interviews ensue, often lasting hours. The interviewing body can range from a single team owner to an extensive planning committee. Steelers owner Art Rooney II and general manager Omar Khan will spearhead the current search, likely encompassing a smaller circle than some other organizations.
In-person interviews can take many forms; they may involve discussions with coaching staff or hands-on demonstrations to assess how candidates interact with potential assistants. An example of a unique approach was the Philadelphia Eagles’ interview with Doug Pederson, who was asked to make a presentation as if he were addressing his new players.
Candidates preparing for these interviews invest significant time, often compiling extensive binders detailing coaching staff choices, practice schedules, and insights into the current roster. For many, these binders reflect years of preparation for such opportunities, prepared with help from industry contacts.
Coaching interviews are akin to standardized tests, with many candidates engaging in mock interviews and body-language training. Understanding the landscape of the hiring team’s needs, including the current roster and salary cap situation, is crucial for prospective head coaches.
The qualities sought in candidates often stem from the shortcomings of previous hires. For instance, teams might intentionally select coaches who contrast dramatically with their predecessors. This pattern can be observed in the Dolphins’ recent selection of a defensive-minded head coach after parting ways with an offensive strategist.
Questions during interviews can be insightful, often gauging a candidate’s approach to issues like star players skipping offseason workouts, shedding light on both their coaching style and potential interactions with the media.
The attractiveness of a job is subjective, influenced by factors such as team ownership, general management compatibility, the caliber of the quarterback, and even luck. Coaches strategically weigh these elements to decide where they might fit best.
As the Steelers continue their search, they find themselves in a unique position, one that allows for reflection and potential transformation after Tomlin’s lengthy tenure. This juncture may provide the franchise with an opportunity to reassess its direction, although they may opt for candidates that mirror the toughness and character embodied by previous coaches.
Ultimately, as Pittsburgh navigates this unfamiliar territory, the goal remains the same: to find a leader who can steer the team effectively and potentially avoid another lengthy coaching search for the foreseeable future.