By WILL GRAVES
Updated 12:13 PM PST, January 13, 2026
PITTSBURGH (AP) — A chapter has closed for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has stepped down after a long run with the team, marking the end of an era defined by consistent, if not always championship-level, performance.
Tomlin’s departure comes after 19 seasons. He took over in 2007, succeeding Bill Cowher. His tenure included a Super Bowl victory early on, but lately, the team’s playoff runs have ended sooner than fans hoped.
In a statement, Tomlin expressed his appreciation to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Dan Rooney for their support. He also thanked the players, coaches, and staff for their hard work and dedication.
Art Rooney II, the team president, praised Tomlin for his commitment to the Steelers. He highlighted Tomlin’s ability to create competitive teams each year, a rare feat in today’s sports world where things are always changing. “Coach Tomlin’s dedication is deeply appreciated,” Rooney stated. “His Super Bowl win and numerous playoff appearances, including eight AFC North titles, speak volumes. His record of never having a losing season in 19 years is truly remarkable.”
While Tomlin’s early years saw great success, the team eventually settled into a pattern. They were consistently good, but often fell short in the playoffs. Some argue that the team’s culture, while disciplined, may not have adapted quickly enough to the evolving landscape of the NFL. A focus on traditional values and a strong work ethic are important, but innovation is also key to sustained success.
Tomlin’s record stands at 193 regular-season wins, tying him with Hall of Famer Chuck Noll for the most in Steelers history. However, their playoff records differ greatly. Noll led the Steelers to four Super Bowl wins in the 1970s, while Tomlin’s postseason record was 8-12, with seven straight losses by large margins.
The most recent loss, a 30-6 defeat by Houston, was particularly tough. It marked the most one-sided home playoff loss in the team’s history. While some fans expressed their frustration, Tomlin’s ability to keep the team competitive, even after setbacks, has been a hallmark of his leadership.
The Steelers managed to win their final games, securing their first AFC North title since 2020. However, the loss to the Texans exposed weaknesses. Their defense, despite being highly paid, struggled, and the offense couldn’t keep up.
Tomlin often emphasized that “the standard is the standard” in Pittsburgh. This meant striving for excellence. While the team always aimed high, their results in recent years suggest they plateaued. They consistently won enough games to make the playoffs, but struggled against top-tier opponents.
With two years remaining on his contract, Tomlin’s departure was unexpected. He had always projected optimism about the team’s future. His exit leaves the Steelers searching for a new leader for only the third time since 1969.
The Steelers job will likely attract many candidates. The team’s stability and history of competitiveness, even without a top quarterback, make it a desirable position. The next coach will have the opportunity to guide the team back to the top.
Tomlin’s future is uncertain, but he has many options. He could pursue a career in television or wait for another coaching opportunity. His players have always supported him. Tight end Pat Freiermuth called Tomlin “one of the best coaches” he’ll ever play for, praising his message and leadership.
General Manager Omar Khan will be responsible for finding the right coach, a task that could define the team’s future. Tomlin’s predecessors are in the Hall of Fame, and he may very well join them. But for now, he has chosen to move on, leaving the Steelers to find a new leader to help them reach their championship goals.
