As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to host the Baltimore Ravens in a decisive AFC North showdown, speculation swirls around head coach Mike Tomlin's future. Beat writer Mark Kaboly suggests owner Art Rooney II would prioritize declining attendance over fan chants in deciding whether to retain Tomlin beyond 2026. A loss Sunday could lead to the team declining Tomlin's 2027 contract option, making next season his last.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' long-standing patience with head coaches underscores the high bar for any change. Since 1969, the franchise has employed only three head coaches, reflecting owner Art Rooney II's commitment to stability. Under Mike Tomlin, who has led the team since 2007, the Steelers have avoided a losing season and remained relevant, with attendance slightly up from 2024 despite fan frustrations.
Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly, speaking on 93.7 The Fan’s The PM Team, emphasized that empty seats would concern Rooney more than 'fire Tomlin' chants heard at home games. “I don’t think they care as much about fire Tomlin [chants] as empty seats. We’ll see how many people are there Sunday night. It should be full,” Kaboly said. He predicts that a loss to the Ravens, resulting in a missed playoffs, would prompt the Steelers to decline Tomlin's team option for 2027, due by March 1, leaving him as a lame duck in 2026.
However, sources indicate any departure would likely be Tomlin's decision rather than a firing. The Steelers-Ravens matchup carries high stakes, with the winner claiming the AFC North title. Tomlin's no-trade clause and the late timing of a potential search complicate matters. Despite a fade after an early hot start, including a Week 17 loss to the Browns, the Steelers' history suggests Rooney values sustained competitiveness over short-term setbacks.
This Sunday's game at Acrisure Stadium will not only decide the division but also influence Rooney's offseason calculus on leadership.
