The Pittsburgh Steelers once again faced a quick exit from the playoffs to conclude the season, leaving fans feeling pessimistic as they approached the 2024 season. The team’s choice to use a first-round draft pick on quarterback Kenny Pickett—a decision that has not yielded results—seemed to hinder their progress. Despite new signings like Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, optimism remained low. The Steelers managed to win several games and appeared to have a legitimate chance until everything unraveled in the final four weeks of the season.
Fortunately, they secured a playoff spot early, and players emphasized that the win-loss record resets during single-elimination games; however, they ultimately couldn’t capitalize on that opportunity. Each year after a loss, calls to “Fire Mike Tomlin” grow louder among fans, but most local media, including Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly from “The Pat McAfee Show,” believe such a move is highly unlikely. Kaboly suggests that there is a potential timeline for parting ways with Tomlin, who currently has a contract.
In June 2024, the franchise extended Tomlin’s contract for three more years, making him the longest-tenured coach in the NFL, reportedly the second-highest paid at around $20 million a year, just behind Andy Reid.
Kaboly posits that Tomlin’s fate is closely tied to current owner Art Rooney II, who may be nearing the end of his tenure. As he prepares to pass the team to his son, Daniel Martin Rooney, this shift could pave the way for change.
“I see it this way, Tomlin’s signed through 2027, that’s $50 million,” Kaboly explained. “I don’t think that will happen. With Art Rooney aging, Daniel could be ready to step in soon, possibly aligning the Tomlin and Rooney timelines. Art has invested heavily in Tomlin, and a new leadership might not feel the same loyalty, making it a suitable moment for a transition.”
Kaboly believes that when Art hands the team over to Daniel, it may also coincide with a departure of key players like T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward. This transition could be timely since changing head coaches typically leads to significant team changes, suggesting fans should brace for challenges ahead.
Since its founding in 1933, the Rooney family has owned the Steelers. Art Rooney Sr., known as “The Chief,” established the team and was at the helm until his death in 1988, after which it was passed to his eldest son, Dan Rooney, and then to Art in 2003.
Despite a considerable faction of fans calling for Tomlin’s departure, Kaboly asserts there are still advantages to maintaining him as head coach. He emphasizes that regardless of who leads the team in 2025, enhancing the talent level, particularly on offense, remains crucial, with wide receiver Tee Higgins frequently mentioned.
Critics questioning why Higgins or other top players would choose Pittsburgh when the team struggles to win playoff games point to Tomlin as the answer. Kaboly suggests that for many players, the opportunity to play under Tomlin, who fosters a unique culture, outweighs the risks, making them willing to consider Pittsburgh.
