Mike Tomlin Rumors on Potential Steelers Trade to Next Landing Spot After Stepping Down

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has stepped down from his position after 19 seasons. It's unclear where he's headed next, although Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that Tomlin will be taking a break from coaching.

In the event that Tomlin does want to coach in 2026, though, the Steelers hold his rights. Tomlin is under contract with the team through 2026, and the Steelers also hold a club option on his deal for 2027. And with that in mind, NFL insider Jordan Schultz noted a scenario where Tomlin could be traded "down the road."

Schultz referenced Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton in his report. Payton coached the New Orleans Saints from 2006-2011 and 2013-2021. He stepped down after the 2021 season, took the 2022 campaign off and worked as an in-studio analyst for Fox Sports.

However, Payton got back into coaching in 2023. He was still under contract with the team through 2024, though, after previously signing a five-year extension. So the Broncos cut a deal with the Saints, sending a 2023 first-round pick (No. 29 overall) and a 2024 second-round selection for Payton and a future third-round pick.

Perhaps something similar comes to fruition for Tomlin. However, it does appear that a role in television could be next. Per Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, Tomlin can "likely pick his TV studio job." He also added that "Fox is considered the favorite."

Over his 19 years as Pittsburgh's head coach, the 53-year-old Tomlin went 193-114-2 overall. None of his teams ever had a losing record. The Steelers also amassed 13 playoff appearances, eight AFC North titles, two AFC Championships and one Super Bowl win.