Mike Tomlin’s time on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ sideline may be over, but the respect for what he built-and what he represents-hasn’t gone anywhere. After 19 seasons leading one of the NFL’s proudest franchises, Tomlin is stepping into a new chapter. And while Steelers fans may have had mixed feelings about when that chapter would begin, there’s no denying the legacy he leaves behind.
Now, all eyes are on what’s next. According to reports, FOX appears to be in the lead to bring Tomlin into the broadcast world.
But whether it’s a network studio or a coaching headset, one thing’s clear: the football world isn’t done with Mike Tomlin. Not even close.
And it’s not just football folks weighing in. NBA superstar Kevin Durant recently offered his take on where Tomlin should land-and he might be onto something.
Durant joined Kay Adams on her podcast and didn’t hesitate when asked about Tomlin’s next move: “I would love to see him on Monday Night Football, in studio,” he said. For Durant, it’s about more than just name recognition.
He talked about how much he enjoys watching former coaches like Jon Gruden and Bill Belichick break down the Xs and Os-peeling back the curtain on the strategy that drives the game. He sees Tomlin fitting right into that mold.
Now, Durant did draw the line at Tomlin doing First Take segments, joking that the high-octane debate format probably isn’t the coach’s style. And honestly, he’s probably right.
Tomlin’s known for his poise, his command, and his ability to deliver sharp insight without the theatrics. That’s what makes the idea of him in a studio setting so intriguing-he brings gravitas, not hot takes.
And let’s talk about Monday Night Football for a second. If Tomlin were to land at ESPN, it would be more than just a good fit-it would be poetic.
Under his leadership, the Steelers became a force on Monday nights, winning 23 straight home games on that stage before a recent loss to Houston. Overall, Tomlin went 22-4 on Monday nights.
That’s not just a stat-it’s a résumé builder for someone who might soon be breaking down those very games on air.
There’s also a built-in chemistry waiting for him at ESPN. Tomlin would be joining former Steelers safety Ryan Clark, one of his former players and now one of the sharpest voices in football media.
The idea of those two reuniting to talk shop every week? That’s must-watch TV.
Durant summed it up well: “A lot of people are excited to see what Mike Tomlin is going to do. If he goes back to coaching, that’ll be amazing. If he goes into TV, if he does anything around the game of football, he’ll add value anywhere.”
That’s the thing with Tomlin-his value goes beyond wins and losses. He’s a culture-setter, a communicator, and a leader who’s left an indelible mark on one of the league’s most storied franchises. Durant acknowledged that too, praising Tomlin’s impact on the Steelers and the Pittsburgh community.
“Just a legendary career in Pittsburgh,” Durant said. “A coach in that community that will never be forgotten.
Just set the tone every day. Loved the game of football.
Loved coaching. Loved guiding and developing young men into being pros.
I’ve just got so much respect for his journey.”
And that’s the sentiment being echoed across the sports world right now. Whether it’s fellow athletes, broadcasters, or fans, the appreciation for what Tomlin accomplished-and how he did it-is pouring in.
If Tomlin does step into the broadcast booth or studio chair, it’ll be a bittersweet moment for Steelers fans. Seeing him under the bright lights without the headset will take some getting used to.
But make no mistake: wherever he lands, Tomlin’s voice will carry weight. He’s not just another ex-coach moving into media-he’s a football mind with something to say and the presence to make people listen.
Just like Terry Bradshaw before him on FOX or Bill Cowher on CBS, Tomlin has the potential to become a fixture in the next phase of his football life. And for fans who’ve followed his journey from the sidelines to the screen, that’s something to look forward to.