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The Pittsburgh Steelers are experiencing a turbulent transition in their first season without Mike Tomlin at the helm. After a 19-year tenure as head coach that concluded following the 2025 campaign, Tomlin has moved on to a new chapter as a television analyst, while the Steelers have appointed Mike McCarthy as their new head coach. Despite the separation, the bond between Tomlin and the organization remains strong, characterized by mutual respect and affection.
Tomlin's first season in the broadcast booth has not been without commentary about his perceived partiality toward his former team. During an appearance on the New Heights podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce, Tomlin addressed the issue head-on, stating that he is unconcerned if his bias is evident. He explained that after spending two decades in Pittsburgh and having a personal investment in the players, it is only natural to support them. "To be honest with ya, I don't care if I do," Tomlin said. "How can you be somewhere 19 years, man, and had really a personal stake in most of the guys being there and not care for 'em? Not root for 'em? Not be for 'em? I'm not gonna pretend that I'm not. I can't do that. Certainly, I got a job to do and I'm gonna do it. But everybody knows where my heart is and where my support is, and I'm not apologizing for that."
Steelers Adjusting to New Era
As the Steelers navigate their first season without Tomlin, questions linger about whether they miss his leadership. Under McCarthy, the team holds a 3-2 record entering Week 6. While the results have been mixed, the most promising aspect has been their undefeated 3-0 home record and a marginally improved offense. Currently, the sentiment in Pittsburgh is akin to missing an old friend—cherishing the memories but not necessarily longing for a return. Both Tomlin and the Steelers are focused on the future.
Even with the affection for their former coach, it is evident that Tomlin does not miss the rigors of being a head coach. He described his new role as "part-time work" for "full-time pay," and despite speculation that the NFL desires his return to the sidelines, he is content with his position on Sunday Night Football. The Steelers, meanwhile, are beginning to see progress with their new coaching staff. After a rocky start, an impressive victory over the Indianapolis Colts has provided optimism that the worst may be behind them.
Future Hinges on McCarthy's Success
The true measure of this transition will not be clear until the season progresses. The Steelers hired McCarthy with the goal of ending their decade-long playoff win drought. If he can achieve that, he will earn the trust of the fanbase for the remainder of his contract. If not, nostalgia for Tomlin will likely intensify. The fanbase already misses Tomlin as a person, but it remains uncertain how deeply they miss him as their head coach. Regardless, Tomlin's continued support for his former team is a positive development for the Steelers organization.