Steelers’ deadline to decide on Tomlin’s future revealed
Reports have emerged suggesting that the Steelers have a matter of months to decide on what to do with their head coach.
Tick-tock. Tick-tock. Mike, hold this timer.
119,520 minutes and 59 seconds...
58... 57... 56...
Good news for you, Mr. Tomlin: you won’t be fired during the 2025 season. But the Pittsburgh Steelers face a major decision early next year.
35... 34... 33...
According to league sources, the franchise must decide by March 1, 2026 whether to exercise the team option that would extend Tomlin’s contract through 2027.
It feels strange, and almost obscene, to have Tomlin on such a specific timer; he has led the Steelers for 18 seasons without a losing record, a feat few in the NFL can claim. Yet despite that consistency, doubts have mounted. Pittsburgh hasn’t won a playoff game since 2016, a drought that has tested the patience of fans and pundits alike.
14... 13... 12...
The NFL’s two most-tenured coaches, Pittsburgh’s Mike Tomlin and Baltimore’s John Harbaugh square off Sunday for the 39th time, second most in NFL history between head coaches and trailing only former Bears coach George Halas and former Packers coach Curly Lambeau, who squared… pic.twitter.com/VZ6rb4SQrn
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 7, 2025
Tensions rising in Pittsburgh
The frustration boiled over following a 26–7 home loss to the Buffalo Bills, when fans at Acrisure Stadium openly chanted for Tomlin’s dismissal.
119,519 minutes and 59 seconds...
Despite the uproar, the organisation appears to have little appetite for a mid-season firing. Historically, the Steelers rarely make coaching changes, as seen with Tomlin’s longevity, and they haven’t fired a head coach since 1968.
Moreover, Tomlin’s contract includes a no-trade clause, meaning any move to relocate him would require his approval.
27... 26... 25...
The March 1 deadline looms as the true turning point. If the Steelers decline Tomlin’s 2027 option, he would enter next season on a “walk-year”, a situation teams generally try to avoid.
At that point, the franchise might explore different paths: a new long-term coach, or a mutual decision to part ways after 2026. Some analysts even suggest Tomlin himself could opt to step aside rather than lead a team under that kind of uncertainty.
119,518 minutes and 59 seconds...
Aaron Rodgers brought back the championship belt celebration and Mike Tomlin did it too LMFAOO 😂😂😂
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) December 7, 2025
pic.twitter.com/aYdbXVuPuv
Related stories
When the clock gets to zero, we’ll be at March 1st. Let’s see how the Steelers arrive, and who is at the helm. Tick tock.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment