Steelers Expand Coaching Search Beyond Initial Eight Candidates
The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t done yet. While they’ve already lined up eight interviews for their head coaching vacancy, the team is expected to widen its net as they search for the right successor to Mike Tomlin.
The first wave of interviews kicked off virtually on Friday, with the Steelers speaking to Los Angeles Rams coaches Chris Shula and Nate Scheelhaase. That’s the route teams are allowed to take during the playoffs - conducting virtual interviews with coaches still in the hunt - until those teams are either eliminated or hit the bye week before the Super Bowl.
Starting Monday, the process opens up even more. Coaches whose teams have been knocked out of the postseason can now meet with teams in person, and that’s when the Steelers’ search could really heat up.
So far, Pittsburgh has focused heavily on defensive minds. Of the eight interview requests made, six are current defensive coordinators.
The only offensive coaches in that group are Scheelhaase and San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak. And among the eight, just one - Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator and former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores - has prior head coaching experience.
That doesn’t mean the Steelers are locked into a defensive identity or a youth movement. Yes, their last three hires have all been young defensive coordinators, but team president Art Rooney II made it clear: they’re not sticking to any one formula this time around.
That opens the door to a broader range of candidates. If they continue down the defensive path, there are experienced names like Robert Saleh (49ers), Vance Joseph (Broncos), and Jim Schwartz (Browns) who could be on the radar.
All three bring head coaching experience and a track record of building tough, disciplined defenses. On the flip side, there are intriguing up-and-comers like Matt Burke (Texans) and Anthony Campanile (Jaguars) who’ve made strong impressions in recent seasons.
But if the Steelers decide to pivot toward offense - something that might appeal to a fan base hungry for more firepower - there are options there too. Klint Kubiak, currently calling plays for the Seahawks and the older brother of Klay, is a name to watch. Jacksonville’s Grant Udinski is another offensive coordinator who could fit the bill.
The Steelers’ coaching search is still in its early stages, and while the initial list leaned heavily toward defense, all signs point to a wide-open process. With Tomlin’s departure marking the end of an era, Pittsburgh is taking its time - and casting a wide net - to find the right leader for the next chapter.