Mike Tomlin’s time in Pittsburgh is over.
After 19 seasons as Steelers head coach, Tomlin informed the team that he is stepping away from coaching, the team announced on Tuesday.
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Tomlin said in a statement.
“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team. I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.”
Statement from Mike Tomlin: pic.twitter.com/66O3ktES2m
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 13, 2026
The news comes a day after the Steelers’ season ended at the hands of the Houston Texans with a 30-6 defeat in the wild card round.
“During our meeting today, Coach Tomlin informed me that he has decided to step down as our head coach,” Steelers president Art Rooney II said in a statement. “Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years. It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin. He guided the franchise to our sixth Super Bowl championship and made the playoffs 13 times during his tenure, including winning the AFC North eight times in his career. His track record of never having a losing season in 19 years will likely never be duplicated.
“My family and I, and everyone connected to Steelers management, are forever grateful for the passion and dedication Mike Tomlin has devoted to Steelers football.”
Tomlin became Steelers head coach in 2007 and never had a losing season in his 19 years with the team. He led the franchise to a Super Bowl XLIII title in his second season in charge and made another Super Bowl appearance two seasons later. He finishes his tenure with a 193-114-2 regular season record and an 8-12 playoff record.
The Steelers have reached the playoffs five times in the last six seasons, but they have struggled mightily in the postseason over the last decade. Tomlin and Co. have lost seven straight playoff games dating back to the 2016 AFC Championship Game, losing each of their last five by double-digits, a first in NFL history.
In 2025, the Steelers snuck into the playoffs with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Their playoff fate came down to a Tyler Loop field goal attempt on the final play of their Week 18 game against the Baltimore Ravens, and the Ravens kicker missed wide right to give the Steelers a 26-24 win and the AFC North title.
The Steelers, who have only had three head coaches since 1969, are now the ninth team with a head coach vacancy, joining the Ravens, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders and Miami Dolphins.
Tomlin has two years remaining on his contract, so the Steelers are able to retain his coaching rights and receive compensation if he takes another NFL coaching job.
“Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team,” Tomlin said in his statement.
“While this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization, and I will forever be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”
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