Steelers Face Key Contract Decision on Mike Tomlin, But Firing Isn’t on the Table
The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into a pivotal offseason, but despite the noise surrounding Mike Tomlin, one thing is clear: he’s not getting fired. According to reports, the franchise will instead have to make a decision on Tomlin’s contract option by March 1.
Here’s where things stand: Tomlin’s current deal runs through the 2026 season, with a team option for 2027. If Pittsburgh opts not to pick up that option, Tomlin would be entering the final year of his deal next season-a scenario that would raise eyebrows given his long-standing tenure and the organization’s consistent approach to leadership stability.
And make no mistake: the Steelers don’t fire head coaches. It’s not just a philosophy-it’s history.
The franchise hasn’t dismissed a head coach since 1941. That type of continuity is almost unheard of in today’s NFL, and it’s a major reason why the idea of cutting ties with Tomlin mid-contract has never gained serious traction inside the building.
Still, the pressure is real. The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016, and while Tomlin’s teams have remained competitive-he’s never posted a losing season in 18 years-postseason success has been elusive.
That’s five straight playoff exits in the first round. For a franchise that measures success in Lombardis, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
But Tomlin’s resume holds weight. Since taking the job in 2007, he’s compiled a 189-113-2 record, good for a .625 winning percentage.
He’s led the Steelers to 12 playoff appearances and two Super Bowl berths, winning one. That kind of consistency is rare, and it’s why the organization remains committed to him, even amid growing fan frustration.
Internally, there’s no sense of panic. League sources say Tomlin isn’t bothered by the outside noise.
He’s stayed locked in on the task at hand-winning games, developing players, and keeping the locker room unified. That’s been his M.O. since day one in Pittsburgh.
“He doesn’t pay attention to it,” a source close to the situation said. “He’s focused on winning and doesn’t let the noise affect him.”
And while the fanbase might be split, the league sees Tomlin’s value. If Pittsburgh ever did decide to move on, there’s a belief he’d command significant trade value-possibly even a first-round pick.
But that’s a complicated road. Tomlin’s contract includes a no-trade clause, meaning he’d have to sign off on any deal.
It would take a mutual decision, not just a front-office call.
There’s also the possibility of a mutual parting of ways, though that remains speculative. As one source put it: “Who are they going to hire that will be better?”
That’s the question looming over any potential coaching change. Proven, high-level head coaches don’t exactly grow on trees.
And for those wondering if Tomlin might pivot to the college ranks, don’t count on it. Despite former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger floating the idea of Tomlin coaching at a place like Penn State, sources close to the situation have dismissed that entirely. One source took it a step further, saying: “Ben is more concerned about remaining relevant than being real and respectful.”
Back in June 2024, the Steelers extended Tomlin’s contract by three years-a clear sign of confidence in his leadership. And even as the playoff drought continues, ownership has stood by him. Steelers owner Art Rooney voiced his support earlier this year, emphasizing Tomlin’s track record and the importance of stability in a league that sees coaching turnover at a dizzying pace.
“When you look at how many games Mike has won in this league, you don’t win that many games if you’re not a good coach,” Rooney said. “We still feel good about him being the leader and still think he has the strengths that he always had in terms of being able to lead a team.”
At 52 years old, Tomlin remains the NFL’s longest-tenured head coach. He’s seen the league evolve, navigated quarterback transitions, and kept the Steelers competitive through it all. While the postseason results haven’t matched the regular-season consistency in recent years, there’s no denying Tomlin’s place among the most respected coaches in the game.
The decision looming this offseason isn’t about firing Mike Tomlin. It’s about whether to lock in another year of stability-or begin planning for a future without one of the franchise’s most successful coaches.
Either way, the Steelers are at a crossroads. But if history is any indication, they’re not in a rush to change course.