Mike Tomlin has served as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2007. Throughout his tenure, Tomlin has consistently aimed to steer the team in a positive direction, striving for success year after year.
His enduring commitment to the Steelers is proved by his distinctive coaching philosophy, which he shared in a recent interview on “The Pivot.” In discussing his approach to coaching, the head coach shared his proactive mindset, stating that he doesn’t shy away from challenges but rather embraces them as opportunities.
“I don’t run away from coaching, I run to coaching. When you’re a coach that’s talking about somebody CAN’T learn… you’re seeking comfort, because you’re teaching is struggling.”
Tomlin’s coaching philosophy has been instrumental in the Steelers’ ongoing success. Hence, despite a mediocre record last season, with the Steelers finishing at 10-7, the team has remained committed to Tomlin due to his proven track record and approach.
Nevertheless, not everyone shares the sentiment of retaining Tomlin, as a former scout has recently suggested that the Steelers should consider parting ways with Tomlin.
John Middlekauff advocates for Steelers to part ways with Mike Tomlin
The NFL offseason brought significant changes to coaching staffs across the league, with seasoned veterans like Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots finding themselves without a job. Nevertheless, one coach who narrowly escaped the chopping block was Mike Tomlin.
Amid his uncertain future in Pittsburgh, the Steelers ultimately opted to retain him. Former NFL scout John Middlekauff expressed his disagreement with this decision. He believed it was time for the Steelers to part ways with Tomlin and pursue a fresh start.
“I thought they should’ve moved on from Tomlin last year. Like I said, it’s time for a new start… I think the Steelers are in a little bit of trouble. They’re not going to be terrible, but I kinda view them in the same range they’ve been in,” he said, per SI.
However, the Steelers’ decision to stick with the head coach may not be as dire as some suggest. In the current offseason, he made significant moves to bolster the team’s roster, notably acquiring veteran quarterback Russell Wilson from the Denver Broncos and trading for promising talent Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears.
With these additions, Tomlin has initiated a quarterback competition between Wilson and Fields, aiming to rejuvenate the Steelers and put an end to their playoff nightmare.