As the 2024 NFL season draws to a close, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a familiar situation: hoping to build on the foundation of a solid but underwhelming campaign. After another year of ups and downs, one thing is certain: Mike Tomlin, the head coach of the Steelers for nearly two decades, will be back next season. While Tomlin’s job security seems assured, the future of some other key figures within the organization is less certain, as the team contemplates changes that could shape its future trajectory.
Tomlin, who has been the face of the Steelers’ sideline since 2007, has built a legacy of stability, consistency, and resilience. He’s the longest-tenured head coach in the NFL and has guided Pittsburgh to two Super Bowl appearances, one of which resulted in a win, and numerous playoff berths. However, with the Steelers failing to make significant strides in recent seasons, changes are on the horizon — especially within the coaching staff and possibly the roster. While Tomlin remains the team’s leader, the direction of the franchise in 2025 and beyond might hinge on who stays and who goes.
### Mike Tomlin’s Resilience and Job Security
Mike Tomlin has become synonymous with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and for good reason. He has never posted a losing season during his tenure as head coach, a remarkable feat in the modern NFL. Despite the franchise’s occasional hiccups and subpar performances, Tomlin has consistently kept the team competitive, often exceeding expectations, especially considering the roster turnover the team has experienced over the years.
Tomlin’s consistency and leadership have earned him the trust of Steelers ownership. His ability to manage high-profile players, navigate locker room dynamics, and remain level-headed in the face of adversity has made him one of the most respected coaches in the league.
This season, while the Steelers might not have contended for a Super Bowl, they were never far from the playoff hunt. With a defense that remained one of the league’s top units and a promising young quarterback in Kenny Pickett, the future of the Steelers still looks bright under Tomlin’s guidance. The team’s front office, led by General Manager Omar Khan and team president Art Rooney II, has made it clear that Tomlin is their man for the foreseeable future. His leadership is viewed as essential in the team’s efforts to transition through some inevitable changes in the coming years.
While Steelers fans have grown impatient with the team’s lack of championship success in recent seasons, the organization is known for its commitment to stability. Unlike other franchises that are quick to make coaching changes after a couple of down seasons, Pittsburgh values continuity and understands the importance of a steady hand at the top.
Tomlin’s ability to keep the locker room intact despite the challenges of a rebuilding team is a testament to his skill as a leader. With the Steelers needing to overhaul their offensive game plan and potentially make some tough decisions regarding player personnel, the team is still confident in Tomlin’s ability to lead them through these transitions.
### The Rest of the Coaching Staff: A Potential Shake-Up
While Tomlin’s job appears secure, the same cannot be said for several members of his coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Matt Canada has been under heavy scrutiny for much of the season, with many fans and analysts questioning the team’s offensive struggles. Under Canada’s guidance, the Steelers’ offense has been inconsistent, struggling to move the ball efficiently, particularly in key moments.
Though Canada has had some support from Tomlin throughout the season, there is mounting pressure for the Steelers to make a change. The offense has been the team’s biggest weakness, and with the development of Kenny Pickett as the franchise quarterback a top priority, it’s becoming increasingly clear that a change at offensive coordinator could be necessary to unlock Pickett’s full potential.
While Tomlin values loyalty and has given his assistants opportunities to grow, even his closest allies may not be immune to change. A new offensive mind could give the Steelers offense the spark it needs. The team has already been linked to potential replacements for Canada, with names like former NFL head coach Eric Bieniemy and veteran offensive minds like Frank Reich and Pep Hamilton frequently discussed in the rumor mill.
Beyond the offensive coordinator position, other aspects of Tomlin’s staff could also undergo changes. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin has generally received praise for his work, especially considering the strong performance of the defense in recent seasons. However, as the NFL continues to evolve with new offensive schemes and strategies, Austin could face pressure to adapt further, particularly in how the defense handles high-powered offenses.
Special teams coordinator Danny Smith has also had some ups and downs with his unit, and although the Steelers’ special teams have not been disastrous, changes could be made if the team feels that certain areas need improvement, especially with regard to field position and explosive plays.
The Steelers will need to evaluate each of these coaching positions closely, as the right hires could significantly impact the team’s development moving forward.
### Roster Decisions: Key Players Who Could Be On the Way Out
While Tomlin’s job may be safe, the futures of certain players on the roster are far from certain. The Steelers will have difficult decisions to make as they try to build a competitive team that can contend for a Super Bowl.
One player whose future with the team is in question is veteran wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Johnson, who has been the team’s top target for several seasons, has struggled with consistency and dropped passes this year. As the Steelers look to improve their receiving corps, they could explore trading or releasing Johnson in favor of a younger, more reliable option. Johnson’s contract, which carries a significant cap hit, could also make him a prime candidate for a restructure or departure.
On the defensive side, veteran linebacker Joe Schobert, who has been a valuable contributor to the Steelers’ defense since his acquisition, could be another player on the chopping block. Schobert’s performance has been solid, but with Pittsburgh’s defense already stacked with young talent like T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Steelers might look to cut ties with older players to free up cap space for younger stars. Schobert’s departure could also create opportunities for younger players like Mark Robinson and Quincy Williams to step into larger roles.
The Steelers’ offensive line is another area where changes could be coming. Though the line has improved in recent seasons, they remain inconsistent and prone to mistakes. The team may look to bolster the unit through the draft or free agency, which could result in the departure of some veterans like Chuks Okorafor or James Daniels if they feel younger talent can fill their roles at a lower cost.
### The Road Ahead: A Season of Transition
While Mike Tomlin will undoubtedly return for the 2025 season, the Steelers are in a period of transition. The team has shown flashes of potential, but they need to address key areas, most notably the offense, to take the next step. Tomlin’s leadership will be crucial as the team navigates changes to the roster and coaching staff.
Pittsburgh is known for its stability, but even the most storied franchises must adapt when the time comes. Tomlin will have to balance continuity with necessary adjustments, making tough calls about his assistants and roster to ensure the Steelers are positioned for sustained success.
The upcoming offseason will be one of the most pivotal in recent memory for the Steelers, with roster changes and coaching decisions likely to shape the team’s future for years to come. Mike Tomlin’s job is secure, but for some of his assistants and players, the 2024 season may be their last with the Steelers. In a city that values championship contenders, the Steelers will need to make bold decisions to get back into the Super Bowl conversation.