Scoop City: Inside The NFL BREAKING: Mike Tomlin steps down from Steelers, what’s next?
Jan 13, 2026
Mike DeFabo, a local Pittsburgh reporter and Athletics writer, shares insight on the shocking departure of Mike Tomlin, the long-tenured Steelers coach. He discusses the fanbase's mixed reactions and the stark contrast between national respect and local frustrations over a playoff drought. The conversation also covers the implications for Pittsburgh's next head coach, the need for a quarterback-centric hire, and highlights from players about Tomlin's leadership. DeFabo provides a unique perspective on what’s next for the Steelers organization.
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Tomlin Intends A Real Break
- Mike Tomlin is stepping away from football now, not a Sean Payton-style short TV hiatus and return.
- People close to Tomlin believe he intends a genuine break from coaching rather than an immediate move to another team.
Tomlin Is A TV Commodity
- Networks, especially Fox, have actively courted Mike Tomlin as a potential TV analyst.
- Tomlin has relationships with media executives, making a broadcast move plausible if he chooses it.
Tomlin Mentored Prospects Over Dinner
- James Palmer recalls Tomlin dining with LSU prospects and advising them despite them likely not joining the Steelers.
- Tomlin wanted to help them avoid pitfalls and prolong their NFL careers.