It's official: Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is stepping down after 19 seasons with the team.
Both the Steelers and Tomlin confirmed the decision via statements, and now the Steelers will be looking for their fourth head coach since 1969.
"After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers," Tomlin said.
"During our meeting today, Coach Tomlin informed me that he has decided to step down as our Head Coach. Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years," Art Rooney II wrote.
Due to the fact that Tomlin wasn't fired, the Steelers still own his contract rights, so when he does decide to go back to coaching, a trade is likely to happen.
According to ESPN's Kimberley A. Martin, Steelers players are in "disbelief" with Tomlin's decision.
Here's how some former Steelers players reacted to the news:
Antonio Brown: "The coach got sacked."
Antonio Brown: "Mike Tomlin to the Ravens."
Todd Haley: "Fairly shocking, I would say. You know, that was a shocking result last night. You know, and I said, going in, you know, everybody that was asking me anyway, and we were on air last night after the game, I'd be shocked if the Steelers fired him. I would not be shocked if he... You know how I feel about him. I don't think his message has gotten old. I think they've had a quarterback problem here since Ben [Roethlisberger] got into his later years. So, that's been the major problem. I saw a defense I thought last night, that he's heavily involved in, play good enough for three quarters at least to give them a chance to win. I don't think the message is old. I don't believe that rhetoric and I don't believe with, well, it's just time. But for him, obviously, he's in a place where he get it gets to make big boy decisions and he's gonna be highly sought after. I don't know how the, you guys can fill me in on if he does go somewhere else, what it's gonna cost, all those type of things. You know, surprised, but not shocked."
Ryan Clark: "I get it. Trust me I do, but I’m sad to see Mike T go. Sometime change is needed for everyone. Job well done big brother!
Trai Essex: "Holy S***. It happened. Not gonna lie, as much as I’m not surprised that it happened, I’m still in shock."
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