Mike Tomlin Reacts to John Harbaugh's Firing, Calls Ravens' Decision 'Unfortunate'

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin discussed the Baltimore Ravens' decision to fire head coach John Harbaugh on Tuesday.

"First, I just have so much respect for Harbs," Tomlin said on the Rich Eisen Show (h/t Ryan Mink of baltimoreravens.com). "Our stories will forever be interwoven. This rivalry that we've been fortunate and honored enough to be a part of, I've just got so much respect for him and how he's gone about his business. We've certainly had some legendary battles over the years. In terms of him being let go, I just think it's a component of today's sports culture. There have been many examples of that. It's unfortunate, but I'm sure that he is going to move on and if he chooses to coach again, I'm sure he will and I'm sure he'll be very successful at doing so."

Tomlin and Harbaugh are extremely familiar with facing one another, as they've been AFC North rivals since 2008.

Their teams have played against each other 44 times, the second-most meetings between opposing coaches behind only Chicago Bears legend George Halas and Green Bay Packers icon Curly Lambeau (via SI.com's Tim Capurso).

The Steelers and Ravens battled with a playoff spot on the line in Week 18, as Pittsburgh secured a 26-24 win after Baltimore kicker Tyler Loop missed a game-winning field goal from 44 yards out.

▶️ Full Ravens-Steelers Recap

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With Harbaugh gone, the Ravens will now search for their fourth head coach in franchise history.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that Baltimore requested an interview with Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver on Wednesday,

As for Tomlin and the Steelers, they're preparing to face the Houston Texans in a Wild Card playoff matchup on Monday. Kickoff is at 8:15 p.m. ET.