Mike Tomlin Confirms Return to Steelers and Expects Contract Extension
After a disappointing playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media with a smile on his face and a positive outlook for the future. Tomlin confirmed that he will be staying with the Steelers and expects to sign a contract extension that will keep him with the team until at least 2024. This news puts an end to the speculation that Tomlin was considering leaving the franchise after 17 seasons.
Tomlin’s upbeat demeanor was a stark contrast to his previous press conference, where he walked out when asked about his contract status. Reflecting on that incident, Tomlin admitted that he could have handled it better but emphasized that postgame press conferences are not the appropriate venue to discuss contract matters. He expressed his belief that there is a time and place for everything and that game day is not the time to think about contracts.
Regarding his contract negotiations, Tomlin expressed confidence in his relationship with Steelers owner Art Rooney II and expects the process to go smoothly. He stated, “Art and I have a really good, transparent relationship. We communicate continually, often. I don’t imagine it’s gonna be an issue.” It seems that both parties are committed to working out a deal in a timely manner.
While Tomlin’s return is confirmed, the future of Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator remains uncertain. Tomlin revealed that the Steelers will be looking externally to hire their next offensive coordinator and are seeking someone with previous coordinating experience. This decision rules out promoting quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan or interim offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner to the position. Faulkner took over midseason after the Steelers fired offensive coordinator Matt Canada.
The quarterback situation for the upcoming season is also up in the air. Kenny Pickett, who signed a four-year, $14 million contract after being selected in the first round of the 2022 draft, is expected to be the starting quarterback. However, Tomlin made it clear that there will be competition for the position. Mason Rudolph, who filled in for an injured Pickett and led the team to a 3-0 finish, will be a free agent this offseason. Tomlin mentioned that Rudolph, Mitchell Trubisky, or another quarterback could challenge Pickett for the starting role.
Tomlin believes that competition brings out the best in everyone and is excited to see how Pickett responds to the challenge. He stated, “I think competition is good. I think it’s good for all of us. I think it brings out the best in all of us.” It seems that Tomlin is determined to create a competitive environment within the team and push his players to reach their full potential.
With Tomlin’s return and the prospect of a contract extension, the Steelers can now focus on building a strong team for the upcoming season. While there are still uncertainties surrounding the offensive coordinator and quarterback positions, one thing is clear: Mike Tomlin is committed to leading the Steelers and expects nothing less than excellence from his team.
