Mike Tomlin has confirmed his coaching plans for 2024.
This past weekend in Buffalo, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2023 season came to an abrupt end as Mike Tomlin and company were outclassed by the Bills, 31-17.
It was remarkable that the Steelers, with their shifting cast of quarterbacks, managed to make it to the playoffs even though they were considered a sitting dog in the Wild Card round. Kenny Pickett, a 2021 first-round choice, struggled early on and hurt himself just as he seemed to be getting comfortable. The offense was led by seasoned journeyman Mitchell Trubisky, who appeared disoriented, forcing Tomlin to substitute veteran Steelers backup Mason Rudolph. Rudolph didn’t exactly blow everyone away, but he did provide some steadiness and didn’t give up the ball, which allowed the club to rely on a strong defense and the dynamic duo of Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris in the backfield.
But that run would end during the team’s previously mentioned Wild Card round game in Buffalo, as the Steelers were simply outplayed and out talented by the Bills, particularly with Rudolph starting at quarterback and All-Pro edge rusher TJ Watt out due to injury. Before the Steelers’ playoff elimination, head coach Mike Tomlin made a suggestion that he would consider retiring. After the game in Buffalo, the Super Bowl champion head coach stormed out of his news conference when someone asked him about his current Pittsburgh contract situation.
But in a statement to ESPN, Tomlin stated that he not only thought he would return in 2024, but he also anticipated an extension from the team:
“I anticipate returning, and I believe those contractual obligations will conclude.” I have a really open and honest relationship with Art [Rooney II]. We talk all the time. My focus is on coaching his football team, therefore I don’t think there will be any problems and I think everything will be finished on schedule.
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