Mike Tomlin has coached the Pittsburgh Steelers for 19 seasons, never having the team finish a season below.500. Despite a lack of losing, another disappointing season in 2026 could prompt the franchise to make a head-coaching change for the first time since 2007.
Although Tomlin had one more year on his contract through 2027, the Steelers took the opportunity to opt out a year early. That had some thinking that this was he right time for Pittsburgh to make a move.
On Sunday, ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested Tomlin and the Steelers could decide to mutually part ways if Pittsburgh collapses to miss the playoffs — or make another early exit.
However, he emphasized that decision is likely Tomlin's to make for himself rather than the organization firing the NFL's longest-tenured active head coach.
Here's a look at who the Steelers might consider most to replace Tomlin if it comes to that:
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Brian Flores, Vikings defensive coordinator (age: 44)
Flores got his NFL coaching career righted when he worked as a senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach under Tomlin in Pittsburgh in 2022. That followed his tumultuous tenure with the Dolphins and preceded his ace work calling plays for the Vikings. Flores would make a lot of sense for a more seasoned return.
Klint Kubiak, Seahawks offensive coordinator (age: 38)
Gary Kubiak's son is working on being a bright head-coaching star of his own, doing a bang-up job with Sam Darnold and the Seahawks' run-heavy attack. That profile would fit well with Pittsburgh.
Jeff Hafley, Packers defensive coordinator (age: 46)
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Halfey has been a strong defensive leader in Green Bay and had a promising unit when Micah Parsons when healthy. He also has strong head-coaching experience from his stintin Boston College. He has the right makeup to thrive with the Steelers.
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Mike LaFleur, Rams offensive coordinator (age: 38)
The Rams' tree under Sean McVay always needs a look for high-profile openings. The brother of Packers coach Matt is overdue for his turn as a young head coach.
Chris Shula, Rams defensive coordinator (age: 39)
The Steelers also can go after this other notable coaching son if they want to stay more defensive-minded in replacing Tomlin. The younger Shula deserves a shot for how well he's turned around the young Rams to being a feared unit.
Mike McCarthy, former Packers and Cowboys head coach (age: 62)
McCarthy makes the cut as a "Pittsburgh guy", an experienced Steel City native who has worked for two other marquee franchises, including leading Green Bay to Super Bowl victory over Tomlin's Pittsburgh team in Super Bowl 45.
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