Mike Tomlin Talks Potential NFL Return to Coaching in 2027, Updates Timeline for Decision

Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin isn't yet focused on a return to the sidelines as he continues his broadcast work for NBC Sports.

Tomlin told reporters Wednesday he hasn't "given one iota of thought about coaching." However, he didn't totally rule out the idea.

Front Office Sports' Mark Maske reported in October that Tomlin is likely to be targeted by NFL teams this offseason, "but it's not considered automatic that he would leave his broadcasting job."

The 54-year-old isn't old in coaching terms. Working 19 seasons in the job is a long time, though, and this is the first time in two decades he has taken a step back to reset.

Tomlin has generally received positive reviews for his work with NBC. He might be enjoying the work more than he expected.

Fans have also discovered his passions extend well beyond football. It was mesmerizing to watch Tomlin earnestly describe the thought and effort he put into building his own city in Minecraft.

There's no question the interest from NFL teams will be there.

Tomlin has a .628 career winning percentage, and leaving Pittsburgh could be exactly what he needed because his tenure had run its course. There's no reason to think he has suffered from taking a season off, either, after both Sean Payton and Mike Vrabel thrived in their new settings after a gap year.

Whether Tomlin is eager to jump back into a coaching job is another matter. He's being well compensated by NBC and working far less than he had before.

It's not a bad gig if you can get it.