After the Steelers’ playoff elimination, head coach Mike Tomlin made the surprising decision to resign, leaving the NFL community in shock.
“As this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited about the future of this organization and will be forever grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh,” Tomlin shared in a recent interview.
This unexpected move has triggered a rather unusual coaching search for the Steelers, who have had only three head coaches since 1969. Art Rooney II and Omar Khan are spearheading the search and have already started interviewing potential candidates.
Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has also voiced his thoughts on the team’s direction.
Typically, the Steelers have focused on hiring coaches with defensive expertise, but Roethlisberger feels it may be time for an offensive shift. “I would strongly consider a few things… The first thing I thought was, I want an offensive-minded head coach,” he remarked on “Footballin’ with Ben Roethlisberger.”
“If I were the general manager, that’s what I would prioritize. We’ve had defensive-minded coaches here for years, and I think it’s high time for a change. I want someone who can deliver points—six or more in postseason games would be nice.” He suggested looking for a young, offensive-minded coach, perhaps someone reminiscent of Sean McVay or Ben Johnson, who could hopefully stick around long-term.
Roethlisberger mentioned that the new head coach should collaborate with an experienced defensive coordinator, noting Jim Schwartz and Vic Fangio as possible candidates.
He also expressed support for hiring Mike McCarthy, the former coach of the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys. “Mike McCarthy would be my next choice,” he stated. “He’s a veteran offensive coach with ties to Pittsburgh and understands what it means to be a Steeler. I have a lot of respect for him, and he might bring in a younger coordinator.” The main concern, however, is how long McCarthy would continue coaching.
Roethlisberger highlighted a potential upside too—McCarthy could bring Aaron Rodgers into the fold. “They have a good relationship, and they’ve won a Super Bowl together. That synergy could be beneficial,” he said.
Aaron Rodgers had a notable first season with the Steelers, finishing with 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions. The Steelers managed to clinch the AFC North title and secure a postseason spot, overcoming a challenge from the Baltimore Ravens in their final regular-season game.
It remains uncertain if Rodgers will return to Pittsburgh in 2026, consider other teams, or even retire. Roethlisberger, though, is hopeful about seeing the four-time league MVP back in action for the Steelers next season.
