In a stunning development that marks the end of one of the most stable eras in NFL history, longtime Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is stepping down after 19 seasons with the franchise, according to a report from NFL insider Dianna Russini.
Tomlin reportedly informed the team of his decision during a meeting on Tuesday, bringing to a close a remarkable run that began in 2007 and produced one of the most consistent résumés in modern football.
During his time in Pittsburgh, Tomlin compiled a regular-season record of 193-114-2 and never endured a losing season — the longest streak to begin a head coaching career in NFL history. He led the Steelers to a Super Bowl XLIII championship, another Super Bowl appearance, and finished with a career record of 201-126-2, including postseason play.
Before becoming the youngest head coach in the league at the time of his hiring, Tomlin worked his way up through the coaching ranks with stops at VMI, Memphis, Arkansas State, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Minnesota Vikings, where he served as defensive coordinator before being hired by Pittsburgh.
Known for his leadership, player relationships, and trademark no-nonsense style, Tomlin became one of the faces of the Steelers organization and one of the most respected coaches in the sport.
His departure signals a massive transition for a franchise that has had only three head coaches since 1969. The Steelers will now begin the search for a successor to one of the most accomplished and steady leaders the NFL has seen over the past two decades.
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