The Pittsburgh Steelers are starting to map out their post-Mike Tomlin era, and two familiar defensive minds are now in the mix to take the reins. According to multiple reports, the team has requested interviews with Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver.
Let’s start with Flores - a name that should ring a bell in Pittsburgh. He spent the 2022 season on the Steelers’ staff as a senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach.
While he was only in town for a year, Flores left a strong impression. Players responded to his coaching style, and his presence in the defensive room was widely praised.
Now, after a solid year coordinating Minnesota’s defense, he’s back on the Steelers’ radar - this time as a potential head coach.
Flores brings more than just familiarity. He’s got head coaching experience from his time in Miami, and he’s known for building aggressive, disciplined defenses.
His ability to connect with players and command a room makes him a compelling candidate, especially for a franchise that values continuity and toughness on the defensive side of the ball. He’s also reportedly interviewed with the Ravens, who are themselves searching for a new head coach following John Harbaugh’s dismissal.
As for Weaver, his name is gaining steam in coaching circles - and for good reason. He’s been the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator for the past two seasons, helping shape a unit that’s shown flashes of dominance.
Before that, Weaver built a strong reputation coaching defensive lines in Baltimore and Cleveland. He knows the AFC North well, both as a coach and as a player.
That’s right - Weaver played in the division too. He suited up for the Ravens from 2002 to 2005 before finishing his NFL career with the Texans. That kind of experience - both on the field and on the sidelines - gives him a unique perspective that could resonate with a team like the Steelers, who pride themselves on physicality and defensive identity.
At 45, Weaver’s viewed as a rising star in the coaching world. His leadership style, combined with his recent success in Miami and deep roots in AFC North football, make him an intriguing option as Pittsburgh evaluates its next move.
With Tomlin stepping down, the Steelers are entering unfamiliar territory - this is a franchise that hasn’t had to hire a new head coach since 2007. But if history is any guide, they’ll take a methodical, thoughtful approach. Flores and Weaver both check a lot of boxes, and their interviews will be ones to watch as Pittsburgh begins a new chapter.