Speculation Surrounds Pittsburgh Steelers' Coach Mike Tomlin Amid Trade Rumors
ICARO Media Group
In a surprising turn of events, speculation has arisen regarding the future of Mike Tomlin as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Athletic's Dianna Russini has reported that there has been "chatter" about the possibility of the Steelers being open to trading Tomlin, with potential destinations including Washington, Chicago, and Carolina.
The sources of this "chatter" remain undisclosed, potentially suggesting that it stems from outside the organization rather than from within. While a trade scenario seems unlikely, considering the weight and impact it would have, Russini's inclusion of this information is worth noting, given her credibility as a reporter.
Russini's report on Tomlin's future with the Steelers presents a contradictory stance. On one hand, she believes that Tomlin has a "good chance" of remaining in Pittsburgh for the 2024 season. On the other hand, she describes his future as "murky," leaving room for doubt and speculation.
Should a trade indeed take place, it is speculated that Washington and Carolina would be the most logical destinations. Both teams are led by individuals who were previously minority owners in the Steelers, namely Josh Harris for Washington and David Tepper for Carolina. These owners have the financial means to acquire Tomlin and are reportedly eager to make a significant move to shake up their respective organizations.
The mention of Chicago as a potential landing spot for Tomlin adds an intriguing wildcard element to the equation. Although the Bears' interest in Omar Khan, a member of the Steelers' front office, has been long-standing, it is unclear if this would directly translate to pursuing Tomlin.
Despite the swirl of trade rumors, the prevailing likelihood remains that Tomlin will stay in Pittsburgh. Coaching trades are a rarity, especially for active coaches, and there are no indications that the organization wants to part ways with Tomlin. Likewise, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Tomlin desires an exit from the Steelers.
However, the most pressing question surrounding Tomlin's future is whether he will receive a contract extension this offseason. With his current deal set to expire in 2024, there is a risk of him entering the "lame duck" status without a new agreement. The decision of Steelers' owner Art Rooney II on offering a lucrative extension to Tomlin may depend on the team's performance, particularly if they fail to make the playoffs for the second consecutive season and have not achieved postseason success since 2016.
As the Steelers' season unfolds, the story surrounding Tomlin's future is expected to persist. Until the NFL fills their head coaching vacancies later in January or early February, trade rumors and speculation will continue to circulate. This uncertainty surrounding Pittsburgh's coaching situation marks a departure from the stability and consistency that has characterized the team for a significant period.
With the eyes of the football world fixed on the Steelers, only time will tell how this story ultimately unfolds and whether Tomlin will continue to lead the storied franchise into the future.