Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Leaves the Door Open to a Coaching Return
Tomlin Has Not Considered Coaching
Tomlin told NBC correspondents he has not spent time thinking about returning to an NFL sideline. He said the topic may arise in the near future, but he will address it when that happens.
He made the remarks before the Steelers’ Week 10 road matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday Night Football. Tomlin is scheduled to attend as part of NBC’s “Football Night in America” crew.
A Strong Pittsburgh Record
Tomlin stepped down after the 2025 campaign, following 19 years leading Pittsburgh. He never had a losing season, finishing with a regular-season record of 193-114-2. The Steelers closed his tenure with seven consecutive postseason losses, but Tomlin also led them to a Super Bowl XLIII victory in 2008. Pittsburgh made 13 playoff trips under his leadership, with seven additional postseason wins.
Tomlin is tied with fellow Pittsburgh figure Chuck Noll for the ninth-most head-coaching wins in NFL history. The article describes his record as a potential basis for future Pro Football Hall of Fame recognition, whether or not he coaches again.
Questions About His Rights
If Tomlin returns to coaching in 2027, 2028 or later, it is unclear whether the Steelers could trade his contractual rights for compensation. New Orleans received assets after Sean Payton stepped away following the 2021 season and later joined Denver in 2023, but Pittsburgh’s ability to do the same is unknown.
If Pittsburgh retains Tomlin’s rights, the team could potentially receive a first-round pick or more from a hiring team. A move to an AFC team could also mean more frequent matchups against the Steelers.
Key points
- Tomlin says he has not considered returning to an NFL coaching role.
- He led Pittsburgh for 19 years without a losing season.
- The Steelers finished his tenure with seven straight postseason losses.
- It is unclear whether Pittsburgh could trade Tomlin’s contractual rights if he is hired elsewhere.