The debate surrounding Mike Tomlin’s future in Pittsburgh continues to bubble — but not everyone is buying the idea that it’s time for a change. In fact, one respected NFL voice says the very thought is borderline ridiculous.
Peter Schrager, NFL Network host and analyst on Good Morning Football, delivered a strong defense of Tomlin this week, telling viewers that he can’t fathom the Steelers moving on from their longtime head coach.
“I can’t imagine the Steelers letting go of Mike Tomlin,” Schrager said. “If they do, 31 other teams would sign up for that instantly.”
A League-Wide Commodity
Schrager’s statement reflects a sentiment held by many around the league: Mike Tomlin is still one of the most respected and stable head coaches in the NFL — even if the playoff results haven’t been there lately.
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Tomlin has never had a losing season in 17 years.
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He’s guided the Steelers to 10+ wins in four of the last six seasons.
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And he’s maintained locker room control through multiple QB transitions and internal rebuilds.
That kind of consistency — especially in the chaotic, results-driven world of modern NFL coaching — is rare.
“He’s a leader, he’s authentic, and his players go to war for him,” Schrager added. “You can’t teach that. You can’t buy that. And you don’t move on from it just because you didn’t win in January.”
Steelers Nation, however, remains split. While many fans still support Tomlin’s leadership, others argue that eight straight seasons without a playoff win is too long for a franchise with championship expectations.
Calls for change grew louder after last season’s Wild Card exit, and with a new-look roster headlined by Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Queen, and potentially Jalen Ramsey, expectations are sky-high in 2025.
But Schrager believes that’s precisely why Tomlin needs to stay.
“This is a Super Bowl window. You want a coach who’s been there, done that, and knows how to manage stars and pressure,” he said. “Mike Tomlin is that guy.”
Peter Schrager’s comments offer a timely reminder that stability is a luxury in the NFL — not a given. While other franchises cycle through head coaches every few years, the Steelers have had only three since 1969 — and Tomlin’s name is etched into that legacy.
If Pittsburgh ever decides to move on, Schrager says the line of suitors will be long.
“He wouldn’t even need a job search,” Schrager joked. “He’d have 31 offers waiting on the tarmac.”
