Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin faces growing scrutiny after a 26-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills dropped the team to 6-6. Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and ex-offensive coordinator Bruce Arians have suggested it's time for Tomlin to part ways with the organization for a fresh start. Tomlin acknowledged fans' frustrations but expressed confidence in turning things around.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' 6-6 record has sparked intense debate about head coach Mike Tomlin's future, with former team figures weighing in critically. Speaking on his Footbahlin’ Podcast, Ben Roethlisberger, who won Super Bowl XLIII under Tomlin, advocated for a mutual separation after 19 years together. “Maybe it’s a clean-house time. Maybe it’s time,” Roethlisberger said. “I like Coach Tomlin. I have a lot of respect for Coach Tomlin. But maybe it’s best for him, too. Maybe a fresh start for him is what’s best.” He emphasized handling it respectfully, suggesting the team avoid firing a Hall of Fame coach and instead reach an agreement, noting the consistent results despite changes in coordinators and players.
Bruce Arians, Steelers offensive coordinator from 2007-2011, echoed the sentiment on The Pat McAfee Show. “If I were Mike, I would want to get out and go somewhere new. Start over,” Arians said. He predicted offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin won't return next season, stating, “I would not wanna be either one of the coordinators ’cause you’re not coming back next year, for sure.” Arians highlighted the defense's regression despite offseason investments and expressed shock at its performance, attributing issues to a stale message after years of the same approach.
Tomlin addressed fan chants of "Fire Tomlin" during the Bills loss in his weekly press conference, agreeing with their frustration. “You know, in general, I agree with them,” he said. “Football is our game. We're in the sport entertainment business. And so if you root for the Steelers, entertaining them is winning.” He described the team's identity as “6-6, and I don't like it,” but ruled out major coaching changes, focusing instead on analyzing recent shortcomings. The Steelers have lost five of their last seven games, including defeats to Baltimore, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Seattle, Cincinnati, Green Bay, the Los Angeles Chargers, and Buffalo.
Tied for first in the AFC North, Pittsburgh faces the Baltimore Ravens this weekend, both at 6-6. Tomlin remains optimistic, citing his history of in-season turnarounds, though the team's eight-year playoff win drought persists. The Rooney family is unlikely to fire him, with his contract running through 2026.
