Mike Tomlin's long tenure in Pittsburgh is over.
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The Super Bowl-winning coach has told the Steelers that he is stepping down from his role. He had two years left in his contract.
The announcement comes after the Steelers suffered a devastating 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card round.
Mike Tomlin Was an Accomplished Coach
In his 19 years of wearing the headset, Tomlin accumulated 193 regular-season wins. He never had a losing season in his years of leading the Steelers. Up until this announcement, he was the longest-serving head coach of a single North American professional sports franchise.
Despite Tomlin's achievements, playoff victories had become elusive in recent years. The Steelers' last postseason win was nine years ago, when they defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 18-16 on Jan. 15, 2017.
As Tomlin and Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers walked off the field last night, those in the stands were calling for Tomlin's firing. Speculation about his job status began when the team battled the Baltimore Ravens for a playoff spot in the last week of the season.
"When you don't get it done, words are cheap," Tomlin said in a press conference. "It's about what you do, or you don't do. And so, I appreciate the question, but people talk too much in our business. You either do or you don't."
"Mike T has had more success than damn near anybody in the league for the last 19, 20 years," Rodgers added. "And more than that, though, when you have the right guy and the culture is right, you don't think about making a change, but there's a lot of pressure that comes from the outside, and obviously that sways decisions from time to time."
The Steelers Release A Statement
Following Tomlin informing the team of his decision, Steelers president Art Rooney II released a statement.
"Obviously, I am extremely grateful to Mike for all the hard work, dedication and success we have shared over the last 19 years," he said.
Rooney added, "It is hard for me to put into words the level of respect and appreciation I have for Coach Tomlin. He guided the franchise to our sixth Super Bowl championship and made the playoffs 13 times during his tenure, including winning the AFC North eight times in his career. His track record of never having a losing season in 19 years will likely never be duplicated.
"My family and I, and everyone connected to Steelers management, are forever grateful for the passion and dedication Mike Tomlin has devoted to Steelers football."
Tomlin Shares a Statement of His Own
Tomlin recently shared his own statement:
"After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers," he wrote.
"This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team. I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.
Tomlin added, "I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team.
"While this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization, and I will forever be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh."
