Mike Tomlin Sends Classy Farewell Message To Steelers

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Jan 13, 2026 5:13 PM ET

In one of the biggest coaches moves in recent memory, Mike Tomlin has stepped down as head coach of the Steelers following a 19-year run that included two Super Bowl appearances, a Super Bowl XLIII win and a record 19-straight seasons without a losing record.

The decision came less than 24 hours after the Steelers bowed out of the playoffs at the hands of the Houston Texans. It marked the team's sixth straight one-and-done and seventh straight playoff defeat - the longest playoff losing streak in the Steelers' storied history.

Tomlin ends his tenure in Pittsburgh tied with the late-great Chuck Noll for the most wins in franchise history and surpassed Bill Cowher for the highest win rate in team history.

FWIW: In January 2007, when the Steelers made the surprising decision to hire then-Vikings DC Mike Tomlin, social media was just being launched and there were no iPhones.

The first iPhone came out five months after Tomlin was hired. pic.twitter.com/7aGaMKZN4v
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 13, 2026

Tomlin's Message

Tomlin released a statement today announcing his resignation and reflecting on his time with the Steelers. He offered his thanks to everyone from the owners to the fans for giving him the opportunity and expressed his eternal gratitude to the organization.

“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Tomlin’s statement reads. “This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team. I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.

Nov 30, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on after the game against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images© Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images.

“I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team.

“While this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization, and I will forever be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”

Have we seen the last of Mike Tomlin on an NFL sideline, or will he be back to coaching within a few weeks?

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

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