The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a crucial offseason, marked by a head coaching vacancy and questions at the quarterback position [5]. After Mike Tomlin's departure following 19 years with the team, the Steelers are conducting an extensive search for his replacement [4, 9].
Coaching Search Heats Up
The Steelers are actively interviewing candidates for their head coaching position [2]. After a round of virtual interviews, in-person interviews are now underway with "selected candidates" [1]. Brian Flores, the Minnesota Vikings' defensive coordinator, had an in-person interview on Tuesday [1]. Other potential candidates include Mike McCarthy and Anthony Weaver [2]. Another prominent name is expected to be added to the list this week [1]. Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase reportedly had an "impressive interview" with the Steelers [3].
Quarterback Conundrum
The Steelers also face uncertainty at quarterback [5, 6]. With Aaron Rodgers potentially not a viable long-term solution, the team is exploring various options [8]. These options include selecting from a potentially weak 2026 draft class, free agency, and the trade market [8]. Ben Roethlisberger has voiced his support for Will Howard as the Steelers' starting quarterback in 2026 [11]. Howard missed development time due to a broken finger [11]. The next coach will have to address this issue [6].
Art Rooney II, the team's president and CEO, will be the primary decision-maker in this coaching search [7]. The Steelers have significant cap space, projected at $46.5 million in 2026, providing flexibility to improve the roster [6]. Despite an uneven 10-7 season, no Steelers players were finalists for the Associated Press’ 2025 NFL awards [10].
TL;DR
- The Steelers are actively searching for a new head coach following Mike Tomlin's departure, with in-person interviews underway [1, 4].
- The team faces uncertainty at the quarterback position, exploring options including the draft, free agency, and trades [8].
- Art Rooney II will lead the coaching search, marking his first time as the ultimate decision-maker [7].
- The Steelers have considerable cap space in 2026 to address roster needs [6].