Mike Tomlin Has Reportedly Made His Decision

This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

For the first time in 19 seasons, Mike Tomlin is no longer connected with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

On Tuesday, Tomlin decided to step down as head coach on his own terms. There were reports that the team might have a replacement in mind.

After nearly two decades at the helm of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tomlin has the choice of coaching anywhere he wants to. But the question remains whether he actually wants to. Now 53 and one of the most respected voices in football, Tomlin’s next move is already the subject of major speculation.

That decision has reportedly been made.

Mike Tomlin does not plan to coach in 2026, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. His decision comes after teams inquired about speaking with Tomlin about their openings, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The 53-year-old recorded a 119-114-2 record, 13 playoff trips, and eight AFC North titles. He has one lone Super Bowl title across 19 seasons leading the Steelers.

What’s Next for Mike Tomlin?

The interest level in Mike Tomlin’s services was high among NFL teams, but he has no plans to coach.

Even if he wanted to, he couldn’t do it. The 53-year-old Tomlin isn’t free to move to a new team. Since Tomlin resigned with two years left on his contract, the Steelers retain his rights. That means any team interested in hiring him would have to give up draft-pick compensation.

A similar situation occurred in 2023 when the Denver Broncos traded two draft picks to the New Orleans Saints for the rights to Sean Payton. That worked out, as the team is the number one seed in the AFC playoffs for the 2025-2026 season.

Just as he can’t go anywhere, the Steelers can’t send him to any team either. Mike Tomlin’s contract reportedly features a no-trade clause, which would allow him to dictate where he could be dealt.

If Tomlin does sit out 2026, he will have suitors in the TV world.