Mike Tomlin has stepped down from his position as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers after 19 years in charge.
Tomlin, the longest-tenured head coach in major American professional sports, told his Steelers players that he plans to step away from coaching amid speculation he is being lined up by several TV networks.
The 53-year-old, who led Pittsburgh to Super Bowl glory in 2009, ensured the Steelers never had a losing season while he was in charge. But the franchise has enjoyed a frustrating lack of playoff success, last winning a postseason game in 2016.
The Steelers’ 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans in the wild card round on Monday night means they have now lost seven straight playoff games, the longest active streak in the league.
The ‘Fire Tomlin!’ chants that initially popped up during a late-November loss to the Buffalo Bills were heard again Monday night as Acrisure Stadium emptied.
Tomlin initially brushed off questions about the future on Monday night. He still had up to two more years on his contract and finished his postgame remarks by stressing he ‘always feels optimistic’ about the club’s ability to put together a contender.
Mike Tomlin has stepped down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers after 19 years
The Steelers could also be looking for a franchise quarterback if Aaron Rodgers retires
But now he’s gone and Tomlin’s long spell in charge means the Steelers are looking for just their fourth head coach since 1969.
Tomlin said in a statement: ‘After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
‘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 Athletic reported on Tuesday in the aftermath of Tomlin’s exit that Fox, ESPN, NBC and CBS would all be interested in hiring him to work on their NFL coverage.
Interestingly, the Steelers will retain Tomlin’s coaching rights because he resigned while still under contract. That means if he makes a return to coaching within the next two years they could negotiate compensation with his new team.
Barack Obama with Tomlin and ex Steelers chairman Dan Rooney after their Super Bowl win
Tomlin and long-time rival John Harbaugh are two of the hottest names on the market
There are now nine head coaching vacancies in the NFL and teams have already started interviewing prospective candidates and may have an advantage over Pittsburgh.
Among the biggest names on the market are John Harbaugh, Kevin Stefanski and Mike McDaniel.
If Tomlin was to return to the NFL sideline next season there are openings with the New York Giants, Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders and Arizona Cardinals.
In a statement, Steelers owner and president Art Rooney II said: ‘During our meeting today, Coach Tomlin informed me that he has decided to step down as our Head Coach.
‘Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years. It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin.
‘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.’
It promises to be a huge summer of rebuilding for the Steelers, who could also be without a franchise quarterback if Aaron Rodgers decides to retire.
