Copyright Yardbarker
The Pittsburgh Steelers seem to be stuck in a very average state as an organization. There are ups and downs throughout most seasons, and the 2025 campaign is no different. The franchise invested in the defensive side of the ball once again in the offseason, but the results have not been favorable. Despite a 4-3 record, things are falling apart quickly. One of the unit's most important members, DeShon Elliott, is also expected to be out for the remainder of the year. For a defensive guru like head coach Mike Tomlin, nothing is going right in the Steel City. The Steelers are known for having one of, if not the most, loyal ownership groups in professional sports. Having just three head coaches since 1969 is a mind-blowing fact that is well-respected, but it also has a flaw. Pittsburgh refuses to make significant changes, and despite Tomlin's inability to win a postseason contest since the 2016 season, he remains on the sidelines. Fans have expressed displeasure for several years now; however, Art Rooney II has refused to make the franchise-altering decision to let Tomlin go. It's a fact that he would be hired elsewhere very quickly, but sometimes change is best for both parties involved, as it did for the Philadelphia Eagles and Andy Reid. In a fan chat on Tuesday, Steelers reporter and insider Ray Fittipaldo fielded questions from several concerned individuals. Someone chimed in to ask when Tomlin would finally be on the hot seat, and while the media's answer is typically "never," Fittipaldo offered a response different from some in the past. "Probably when there is only a year left on his deal," Fittipaldo wrote. While this may not be what some want to hear, it's the most realistic outcome. Tomlin signed a fresh three-year extension with Pittsburgh in 2024, so he is tied to the organization through the 2027 season. No one expects any significant changes during or after the current 2025 campaign. Still, if the struggles continue and the team underperforms in 2026, Rooney may let him go with one year remaining on that extension. There is no denying how great a leader Tomlin is. He has an incredible personality that resonates with his locker room, but results speak louder than words. If the Steelers continue to fail at the ultimate goal — winning postseason games — a time will come to part ways.
