The Pittsburgh Steelers have requested to interview Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula for their head coaching vacancy, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This marks the second known interview request from the team, following a similar one for Rams pass-game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase. Shula, a 39-year-old defensive-minded coach with strong NFL ties, emerges as an early candidate after Mike Tomlin's recent resignation.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are moving quickly in their search for a new head coach following Mike Tomlin's resignation. On January 14, 2026, Adam Schefter reported that the team has requested permission to interview Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula, adding to their interest in another Rams assistant, pass-game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.
Shula, aged 39, fits the profile of previous Steelers hires: a young, defensive-oriented coach without prior head coaching experience. His NFL pedigree is notable; his grandfather, Don Shula, holds the record for most wins by an NFL head coach with 328 and once recommended Chuck Noll—who later led the Steelers to four Super Bowls—to the Rooney family. Shula's father, Dave, also coached in the league, including a stint as Bengals head coach, and worked alongside former Steelers GM Kevin Colbert in Miami. Additionally, Shula served as defensive coordinator under Tom Arth, now the Steelers' quarterback coach at John Carroll University.
Rams head coach Sean McVay has praised Shula's abilities. 'He’s a great coach, great connector and has a great ability to be able to have emotional intelligence in terms of how do you communicate?' McVay said, highlighting Shula's leadership and adaptability in earning his role.
Under Shula, the Rams defense ranked 16th in total defense and 10th in scoring defense during the 2025 season. Over the last two years, it placed 11th and seventh in sacks and takeaways, respectively. Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer noted Shula's prior connections to the Steelers organization even before Tomlin's departure.
This interview request underscores the Steelers' preference for coaches from successful trees like McVay's, which has produced head coaches such as Zac Taylor and Matt LaFleur. As the search progresses, Shula's blend of defensive expertise and organizational links positions him as a compelling option for Pittsburgh.
