The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced that head coach Mike Tomlin has informed the team he is stepping down following the club’s elimination from the postseason Monday.
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Tomlin said in a statement posted to the Steelers website.
“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team. I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.”
“I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team.”
“While this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization, and I will forever be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”
The 53 year old leaves behind a 19 year legacy in which the team never had a losing season, including 200 total wins, and a Super Bowl XLIII championship. In terms of regular season success, Tomlin sits 9th all time on the NFL head coach wins list, and sports a 201-126-2 career record.
Because Tomlin had 2 years remaining on his contract, Pittsburgh will retain his NFL coaching rights, and can negotiate compensation with another team if he returns to the league prior to the end of the 2027 season.
“It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin,” Steelers President Art Rooney II said in his statement. “He guided the franchise to our sixth Super Bowl championship and made the playoffs 13 times during his tenure, including winning the AFC North eight times in his career. His track record of never having a losing season in 19 years will likely never be duplicated.”
“My family and I, and everyone connected to Steelers management, are forever grateful for the passion and dedication Mike Tomlin has devoted to Steelers football.”
Pittsburgh will now begin their search for just their 4th head coach since 1969 after wrapping up an era of consistency likely never to be again seen in professional sports. Over the last 56 years, the team has seen just Chuck Noll (1969-1991), Bill Cowher (1992-2006) and Tomlin (2007-2025) along the sidelines.
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