Speculation has emerged regarding the contract extension of Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, with reports suggesting that the team may have made a mistake by not signing him to an extension before the 2023 season. Although Tomlin assured his players that he will be returning next season, analysts believe that the absence of a contract extension might have caused him to consider other opportunities.

The Steelers are notorious for not firing coaches, instead allowing their contracts to expire. With only three head coaches since 1969, the organization has a track record of stability. Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher, Tomlin's predecessors, both retired rather than being let go. However, the lack of recent playoff success is a concern, and it may have given Tomlin pause about his standing within the upper echelons of the organization.

Prior to the season, Steelers owner Art Rooney II stated that an extension would be negotiated with Tomlin when the time was right. Rooney expressed his expectation that Tomlin would remain in Pittsburgh well beyond his current contract. Given the team's and Tomlin's track record, there was no compelling reason to believe that either party would part ways. It is worth noting that the recent speculation about Tomlin's contract status arose after the team experienced a three-game losing streak, including back-to-back losses against low-ranking teams.

Despite this speculation, it is likely that the Steelers will extend Tomlin's contract this offseason. Jason La Canfora recently reported that the team is interested in a long-term extension, confirming earlier reports from Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio during the season. Florio had previously expressed concern that Tomlin's contract situation might make him more aware of other potential opportunities.

At this point, however, the Steelers seem unswayed by any external noise. If Tomlin does receive an extension, any concerns about the team "f'ing around and finding out" will likely be rendered moot. The organization has been known to maintain a consistent approach to contracts and coaching decisions for decades.

While there may have been speculation and insider rumors surrounding Tomlin's contract situation, the Steelers appear poised to continue business as usual. With another season ahead and the potential for a long-term extension, Mike Tomlin's future with the Pittsburgh Steelers appears strong.