Following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ narrow 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, some fans have called for head coach Mike Tomlin to be replaced.
The team’s recent struggles have prompted speculation about Tomlin’s future, with rumors circulating that other NFL teams might be exploring the possibility of acquiring him.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter weighed in on the situation during a discussion about potential coaching changes across the league.
While Schefter was clear that he doesn’t believe the Steelers are inclined to part ways with Tomlin, he acknowledged that teams may reach out to Pittsburgh to gauge their interest in a trade.
“One other coaching note,” Schefter began. “I think that there are going to be teams out there that have watched the way that the Pittsburgh Steelers season has ended and wonder whether they should call the Steelers to see if they should inquire about whether the Steelers will be willing to move on from Mike Tomlin and move him to another organization.
“I don’t think Pittsburgh will do that, that has not been what they’ve been about, and there’s no indication that they would. But I do think there are teams wondering whether they should lob in a call, just to see if they could stir Pittsburgh’s interest.”
Tomlin’s Hall of Fame track record makes him a highly respected figure in the NFL.
Since taking over as head coach in 2007, he has led the Steelers to two Super Bowl appearances, including a victory in 2008.
He has also delivered 15 winning seasons, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top coaches.
However, the Steelers have not won a playoff game since 2016, and some critics argue that the team’s trajectory has stagnated.
Former NFL scout John Middlekauff offered a different perspective on his “3 & Out” podcast, arguing that a mutual separation might benefit both Tomlin and the Steelers.
“Sometimes it’s just time for a change. Not all divorce has to be super anger and hatred. Sometimes, like, ‘Yeah, we’re both better off going our separate ways,’” Middlekauff said.
“I understand why Mike Tomlin likes being the coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s pretty cool. Pays well. Sweet brand. It’s just not really working.
“It clearly has run its course. Because the same thing’s happening now as last year, the previous year, the previous year. You’re gonna be 0-5 [in the playoffs] now since 2016 when next week comes to an end.”
He also emphasized Tomlin’s importance, saying, “His value is extremely high. I just wonder if you’re a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, what are we doing here? What are we doing here? Because we’ve got two teams in our division with Hall of Fame quarterbacks. I just don’t, and there’s no good answer.”
Despite the criticism, the Steelers have once again punched their ticket to the postseason and have a Wild Card date against the rival Baltimore Ravens set for Saturday.
While some Pittsburgh fans aren’t too confident in their chances to pull off the upset, it’s always a risky bet to doubt a Mike Tomlin team.
It should be noted that Tomlin has a no-trade clause in his contract. Therefore, the chances of him actually being traded have to be seen as slim.
By all accounts, Tomlin still loves being the head coach of the Steelers. Not that it matters, but think about how hard it is to picture him wearing another team’s colors?
What are your thoughts on the reports that other teams might try to lure Tomlin out of Pittsburgh? … Can you actually see it happening???
