Manager Ben Roethlisberger recently amended his earlier statements regarding the future of Mike Tomlin, the seasoned Steelers coach, suggesting it might be a good idea to refresh the coaching staff.
This clarification came just before Roethlisberger was honored with an induction into the Steelers’ Hall of Fame during halftime of Monday night’s 28-15 victory over the Dolphins. With this win, Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers, and the Steelers improved their season record to 8-6, placing them one game ahead of the Ravens in the AFC North.
“When I mention the need for a new direction, I mean that if Coach Tomlin feels the urge to move on, he has that right. He deserves it,” Roethlisberger shared with reporters. “It’s really up to him. If he wants to explore different opportunities, he should definitely do that. And we owe him that respect, whatever he decides. Maybe he wants to stay here for another decade, and that would be perfectly fine too.”
This comment contradicted remarks he made on his podcast, “Footballin’ with Ben Roethlisberger,” after a Week 13 loss against the Bills, where fans at Pittsburgh’s Acresure Stadium were voicing their frustration with chants like “Light Tomlin on fire.”
“Perhaps it’s time for some serious changes,” Roethlisberger expressed earlier this month. “I have immense respect for Coach Tomlin — I really do. But maybe a fresh start could be beneficial for him as well.”
He added that taking the helm at Penn State might be a good fit for Tomlin. “If he went to Penn State, you know what? He would likely win a national championship since he’s such an excellent recruiter.” However, Penn State eventually chose Matt Campbell from Iowa State as their new coach, replacing James Franklin.
Tomlin, 53, has an impressive coaching record of 190 wins, 113 losses, and two ties, including one Super Bowl victory, and he’s known for leading the Steelers through an undefeated season in his 19 years with the team.
