In the world of the Pittsburgh Steelers, patience is wearing thin among fans as their team continues to fall short of expectations. Despite the rumblings in the stands, head coach Mike Tomlin is set to return for the 2025 season, alongside offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin. The quarterback situation remains a hot topic, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields considered front-runners to start under center in the upcoming season.
Ownership, however, stands firmly behind the current regime. Steelers owner Art Rooney II recently shared his unwavering belief in Tomlin, highlighting the coach’s impressive track record in the league. “You don’t win that many games if you’re not a good coach,” Rooney stated to the press. He acknowledged Tomlin’s frustration and the team’s struggle to take the next step but also emphasized the continuity that comes with a proven leader. “When you have a good coach, you just try to keep building with them,” Rooney added.
Tomlin’s coaching acumen was on full display during the season’s early going. Empowering Fields brought a strong start with a 4-2 record before transitioning to Wilson, who appeared rejuvenated and secured victories in six of his first seven starts. Yet, the momentum faltered in the latter stages, culminating in a four-game losing streak to close the regular season and a Wild Card exit at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens, marked by a decisive 28-14 defeat.
The loss underscored the gap between the Steelers and genuine contention. However, the belief in Tomlin from within the locker room remains steadfast, and ownership isn’t looking to quick changes. Rooney noted the solid backing Tomlin enjoys from his players, diminishing concerns about his influence waning.
With a three-year extension secured last summer and another non-losing season in the books, Tomlin’s job security seems intact, despite growing frustrations. The question now centers on whether the quarterback solution lies within or if roster enhancements are crucial to breaking the playoff barrier. Regardless, Tomlin will have the chance to steer the Steelers forward, with Rooney seeing no roadblocks in his coach’s path.
