Just days after Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed he plans to stay in Pittsburgh, his name is still getting attention from other teams. According to a source, both the Chicago Bears and at least one other team reached out to the Steelers to inquire about the possibility of trading for Tomlin.
However, the Steelers have turned down these requests, informing teams that Tomlin’s contract includes a no-trade clause, as first reported by ESPN.
The interest from other teams comes only a few days after Tomlin told potential suitors to “save your time.” Tomlin, who signed a three-year contract extension last year to become one of the NFL’s highest-paid coaches, has been leading Pittsburgh since 2007.
The Steelers are known for being patient with their coaching staff, having had only three head coaches since 1969. Despite the Steelers’ fifth consecutive first-round playoff exit, the team has no interest in moving on from Tomlin.
The Bears have been speeding up their coaching search in recent days, even conducting an in-person interview with former Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on Wednesday. They also interviewed Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith on Wednesday, marking their 11th interview.
Bears show they’re serious
At least the Bears tried. Reaching out to the Steelers about Tomlin’s availability is part of the Bears’ broad coaching search. However, Pittsburgh’s response was clear — they’re not letting Tomlin go. That said, it’s good that the Bears made the attempt. This shows they’re serious about finding the right coach, especially under president/CEO Kevin Warren and general manager Ryan Poles.
That said, the Bears are still looking for their sixth head coach since 2012. Tomlin’s coaching record isn’t much better than Mike McCarthy’s, and McCarthy could play a significant role in developing quarterback Caleb Williams. Under Tomlin, the Steelers have had four offensive coordinators since 2018, and life after Ben Roethlisberger has been difficult.
The Steelers’ search for their next quarterback continues, with neither Kenny Pickett, the 20th overall pick in 2022, nor Russell Wilson helping to solve their issues this season.
If or when Tomlin leaves, it will be on his terms
Every year after the Steelers lose in the first round of the playoffs, rumors swirl about whether Tomlin might be on the move. However, it seems both Tomlin and the Steelers are committed to staying together for the long term.
The Steelers are known for their patience, valuing consistency more than any other team in the NFL. Remember, after a humiliating playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills last season, the organization gave Tomlin a three-year contract extension and a raise. After seven years without a playoff win, they showed confidence in him, so it seems unlikely they would part ways now.
Even though Tomlin’s popularity has dipped and he is nearing a decade without a postseason victory, his job security remains strong. Tomlin’s no-trade clause and his public comments show that he’s dedicated to Pittsburgh and believes he can lead the team to success.
Taking big swings makes sense
Bears general manager Ryan Poles has said the team will look at all possibilities to find the best coach for the job. As shown by the wide range of candidates they’ve interviewed, the Bears aren’t ruling out any options. Kevin Warren, the Bears’ president, has praised the team’s appeal, from the fans to the history to the available salary-cap space and the young quarterback in Caleb Williams. If he believes this is a prime coaching opportunity, he should make bold moves.
The key question is, who else did the Bears contact? This isn’t just about whether Tomlin would be a good fit — he’d definitely be the best coach the Bears have had since Mike Ditka, and McCarthy and Pete Carroll, who have also interviewed, would be solid choices as well. Regardless, it shows that the Bears are serious about improving.
Though a trade for Tomlin is highly unlikely, it’s encouraging to see that the Bears are willing to be aggressive. One thing to watch for, though, is if their broad search causes them to lose a good candidate because they’re taking too long to make a decision. While it’s not a concern yet, the clock could start ticking once in-person interviews ramp up next week.
