Mike Tomlin has become one of the NFL’s most enduring and respected head coaches, now entering his 19th season with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
With a career record of 183-107-2, Tomlin’s consistency is rare in a league known for constant change. He has never endured a losing season, and his leadership helped secure the Steelers’ sixth Super Bowl title in 2008.
While Tomlin’s teams have often exceeded expectations, especially given quarterback challenges in recent years, the franchise’s playoff drought is now approaching a decade. Despite this, Tomlin remains a magnet for talent and a symbol of stability, with both veteran stars and rookies eager to play under his guidance.
Tomlin’s 183 wins place him second among active NFL coaches, trailing only Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs. The Steelers’ remarkable run under Tomlin is a testament to his adaptability, player development, and ability to keep the team competitive even in challenging seasons.
Since taking over in 2007, Tomlin has built a culture of accountability and resilience, traits that continue to attract players to Pittsburgh.
NFL Insider Claims There Could Be a Disconnect Between Tomlin and Former Steelers Players
Tomlin is widely regarded as a players’ coach, earning respect around the league for his ability to connect with athletes and foster strong locker rooms. However, not everyone agrees that his reputation is entirely deserved.
Aditi Kinkhabwala, a reporter for CBS Sports, recently discussed concerns from former Steelers players during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan. While Kinkhabwala did not name specific individuals, she stated that many ex-players have privately expressed dissatisfaction with their experiences under Tomlin.
“I’ll just say this without violating anybody’s trust,” Kinkhabwala said. “There are many, many former players that I have spoken to that have bitten their tongues about their experience with Mike. There’s a huge disconnect, right?
“Because the national media is in love with Mike Tomlin and the national media never brings up the playoff drought,” Kinkhabwala said. “And the national media never brings up all these wide receivers who can’t seem to behave one after another after another.”
Despite these claims, Tomlin’s influence remains strong among current and prospective Steelers. Star players like Aaron Rodgers and Darius Slay have cited Tomlin as a key reason for wanting to join the team.
Additionally, the incoming 2025 rookie class voted Tomlin as the coach they would most like to play for, highlighting his ongoing appeal across generations of NFL talent.
Tomlin’s contract extension, signed ahead of the 2024 season, keeps him in Pittsburgh through 2027. He is now among the league’s top five highest-paid coaches, reportedly earning $12.5 million per year.
The Steelers’ continued faith in Tomlin reflects his value to the organization, even as questions about his relationship with certain former players persist.
Ultimately, Tomlin’s track record and ability to attract top talent suggest he will remain a central figure in the NFL landscape for years to come.