Mike Tomlin has finalized his coaching plans for 2024 after the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2023 season concluded abruptly in Buffalo with a 31-17 loss to the Bills. Despite being considered an underdog in the Wild Card round, the Steelers’ playoff appearance was notable, considering the challenges faced with a revolving door of quarterbacks. Kenny Pickett, the 2021 first-round pick, struggled initially and, after finding his rhythm, suffered an injury.
This led to the inclusion of veteran Mitchell Trubisky, who struggled, prompting Tomlin to turn to long-time backup Mason Rudolph. While not setting records, Rudolph brought stability without turnovers, allowing the team to rely on a strong running game with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, complemented by a solid defense.
However, the playoff run ended in Buffalo, where the Steelers were outmatched, particularly with Rudolph at quarterback and All-Pro edge rusher TJ Watt sidelined due to injury. Before the playoff exit, Tomlin hinted at the possibility of stepping back from coaching.
After the Buffalo game, the Super Bowl Champion head coach abruptly left his press conference when questioned about his contract situation in Pittsburgh. Nevertheless, Tomlin later told ESPN that he not only anticipates returning in 2024 but also expects a contract extension from the club.
“I expect to return, and I believe those contracts will be completed. Art [Rooney II] and I have a great, open relationship. We interact frequently. I don’t think it will be a problem, and I believe it will be completed in a timely and acceptable manner, but my mindset is to coach his football team.”
As previously noted, Tomlin stormed out of his post-game press conference following the loss in Buffalo, something Tomlin believes he might have handled differently:
“I could have handled the issue better than I did. But I’ll also say this: I believe there is a time and place for everything, and postgame press conferences are probably not the place to discuss contract disputes and other such matters. It’s just a very personal thing, and I doubt any of us are in that mindset on game day. I certainly am not.
Mike Tomlin’s Historic Run in Pittsburgh
After serving as an assistant coach for an extended period from 1995 to 2005, working with college teams such as VMI, Memphis, Arkansas State, and Cincinnati, and later with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tomlin took on the role of defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings in 2006.
In 2007, Tomlin assumed the position of head coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers, succeeding the legendary Bill Cowher. His second year as the Steelers’ head coach resulted in a Super Bowl title. While he hasn’t secured another Lombardi Trophy since then, Tomlin holds the unique distinction of being the only NFL coach to maintain a winning record in each of his first 17 seasons at the helm. Tomlin’s regular season record stands at 173-100-2, complemented by an 8-10 postseason record, resulting in an overall record of 181-110-2.