Steelers Coaching Search: Could Scott Tolzien Reunite with Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh?
With Mike McCarthy stepping in as the new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the focus now shifts to how he’ll shape his offensive staff - and more importantly, who will take the reins as offensive coordinator. While McCarthy has already begun assembling his crew, one name that continues to surface in league circles is Scott Tolzien.
Let’s break down why Tolzien is a name worth watching in Pittsburgh’s coordinator search, and how his background - both as a player and coach - could align with what McCarthy is building.
From Backup QB to Quarterback Whisperer
Tolzien might not have had a long run as a starting quarterback in the NFL, but his career as a backup gave him a front-row seat to some of the league’s most respected offensive systems. He spent time in quarterback rooms with the Chargers, 49ers, Packers, and Colts between 2011 and 2017 - learning under coaches like Jim Harbaugh and Mike McCarthy, and backing up QBs like Andrew Luck and Aaron Rodgers. That kind of exposure across multiple schemes and locker rooms gives him a well-rounded perspective that’s increasingly valuable in today’s NFL.
After hanging up his cleats, Tolzien didn’t waste time transitioning to coaching. He joined McCarthy’s staff in Dallas in 2020 as an offensive assistant, a role he held for three seasons before being promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2023. He continued in that role through 2024, before moving to New Orleans in 2025 to coach quarterbacks for the Saints.
There, he played a key role in the development of rookie first-round pick Tyler Shough. While Shough’s early-season play had its ups and downs - as you’d expect from a rookie - the back half of the year showed real growth. Tolzien helped steady the ship, and by season’s end, Shough looked like a quarterback who could be part of the Saints’ long-term plans.
A Familiar Face in McCarthy’s System
One of the biggest reasons Tolzien stands out as a potential OC in Pittsburgh? Familiarity.
McCarthy knows exactly what he’s getting. He was the one who brought Tolzien into the coaching ranks in Dallas, and under his watch, Tolzien climbed the ladder from assistant to position coach. That kind of trust and continuity matters - especially when you're trying to install a new offensive identity in a place like Pittsburgh, where expectations are always high and patience is always thin.
Tolzien already understands the core principles of McCarthy’s offense: the timing-based passing game, the emphasis on quarterback decision-making, the blend of West Coast concepts with vertical shots downfield. He’s lived it both as a player and coach.
That makes him more than just a candidate - it makes him a plug-and-play option. If McCarthy is looking for someone who can hit the ground running, speak the same language, and help develop a young quarterback (or manage a veteran transition), Tolzien checks a lot of boxes.
What It Could Mean for the Steelers
Pittsburgh’s offense has been stuck in neutral for a few seasons now. Whoever takes over as offensive coordinator won’t just be tasked with calling plays - they’ll need to help reshape the identity of the unit. That includes developing the quarterback position, maximizing skill talent, and building an offense that can complement a defense that’s still among the league’s best.
Tolzien may not be the flashiest name out there, but he’s got a strong foundation, a track record of growth, and a deep understanding of McCarthy’s system. And sometimes, that’s exactly what a team needs - not a headline hire, but a steady hand who knows how to build from the ground up.
As McCarthy continues his search, don’t be surprised if Tolzien gets a long look. He’s earned it.