For just the fifth time since 1966, the Pittsburgh Steelers are looking for a head coach.
Mike Tomlin has informed the Steelers of his intention to step down as head coach of the team after 19 seasons, the team announced Tuesday. The decision came a day after the Steelers’ season-ending playoff loss to the Houston Texans.
“During our meeting today, Coach Tomlin informed me that he has decided to step down as our Head Coach,” Steelers president Art Rooney II said in a statement. “Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years. It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin. He guided the franchise to our sixth Super Bowl championship and made the playoffs 13 times during his tenure, including winning the AFC North eight times in his career. His track record of never having a losing season in 19 years will likely never be duplicated.
“My family and I, and everyone connected to Steelers management, are forever grateful for the passion and dedication Mike Tomlin has devoted to Steelers football.”
Tomlin helped the Steelers remain a title contender and a playoff mainstay for much of his tenure in Pittsburgh. He went 193-114-2 in his 19 seasons at the helm, leading the Steelers to a Super Bowl title in his second season (2008). He also helped Pittsburgh reach the Super Bowl again in 2010, where the Steelers lost to the Green Bay Packers.
The Steelers reached the playoffs 13 times during his 19 seasons with the team, including three consecutive postseason appearances. Pittsburgh never had a losing record during Tomlin’s tenure, either.
However, the Steelers have had some playoff struggles in recent years. They haven’t won a playoff game since the 2016 season, with Tomlin losing seven straight playoff games. Tomlin had an 8-12 playoff record during his time with the Steelers.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
