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Ben Roethlisberger Takes Side In Debate About Mike Tomlin

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Dec 2, 2025 10:15 PM ET

The Mike Tomlin era for the Pittsburgh Steelers might be nearing its end.

Tomlin, the longest-tenured coach in the NFL, has never had a losing season with the Steelers. His ability to consistently keep the franchise in playoff contention can't be ignored. That being said, Pittsburgh hasn't been a true contender in years. In fact, the Steelers haven't been to the AFC Championship Game since the 2016 season.

During this past weekend's loss to the Buffalo Bills at home, Tomlin was essentially booed out of the stadium. Several analysts, including former NFL player Emmanuel Acho, believe it's time for the Steelers to move on from their coach.

"Tomlin, he has to go because he’s not going to win another Super Bowl in Pittsburgh," Acho said. "I believe the last time he was in a Super Bowl, James Jones was beating him in that Super Bowl 2011 in Dallas when the Packers played the Steelers. It’s been a long time since Mike Tomlin even sniffed the Super Bowl, let alone sniff multiple playoff wins."

Does former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger agree with that take? He shared his take on the latest episode of his "Footbahlin" podcast.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on from the sidelines during the third quarter in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field on September 26, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)Getty Images

Big Ben doesn't hold back.

To the surprise of NFL fans around the country, Roethlisberger said it's time for Tomlin and the Steelers to go their separate ways.

"It's been talked around here a lot. Maybe it is time to clean the house. Maybe it is and I like Coach Tomlin. I have a lot of respect for Coach Tomlin, but maybe it’s best for him too," Roethlisberger said. "Maybe a fresh start for him is what is best. Whether that is in the pros. Go be Penn State’s head coach. Do you know what he would do at Penn State? He would probably go win National Championships because he is a great recruiter."

A change of scenery might be best for Tomlin, especially if he ends up on the New York Giants. After all, they've got a potential-packed quarterback in Jaxson Dart.

On the flip side, if Tomlin ends up at Penn State like Roethlisberger suggested, that would make the Nittany Lions must-see TV in 2026.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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