Mike Tomlin's Appearance After Steelers Move Is Trending

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jan 18, 2026 7:15 AM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers finished the 2025 NFL season with a 10-7 record to top the AFC North. Unfortunately, they lost to the Houston Texans in the wild card round, marking the 10th straight year they failed to win an NFL playoff game.

Following their playoff exit, Mike Tomlin decided to step down from his position. He had served as the Steelers' head coach for 19 seasons, leading the team to a Super Bowl win in just his second year with the team.

"After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers," Tomlin said in a statement announcing his departure from Pittsburgh.

"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."

Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin looks on during an NFL game.Vasha Hunt/Imagn Images

Tomlin's future remains uncertain, but there have been talks about him getting a TV job or taking some time off from coaching. Should he decide to continue as an NFL head coach, though, the Steelers will have to give him permission to join another team and will likely need some compensation since they still hold his rights.

As the sports world awaits what Tomlin will do, the veteran head coach is taking his time and focusing on his personal life. In fact, he recently made his first public appearance since his departure from Pittsburgh.

On Friday, Tomlin attended his daughter's gymnastics meet as part of the University of Georgia. Harley Tomlin and the Bulldogs faced LSU.

Even the NFL shared the moment, writing, "proud dad right there."

Several fans expressed delight at seeing Tomlin spend time with his family, with one fan writing, "That's what he's been wanting to do for a while I’m not sad anymore."

"This Is Tomlin's Piece Of Mind Away From Football - He's Never Smiled So Much," a supporter added. Another commenter stated, "He already looks refreshed. No stress."

"That smile really does it. that man is HAPPY," a viewer observed.

A fifth follower shared, "AWESOME! So glad to see him with his family, enjoying himself. Awesome. I'm gonna miss you Coach! GO STEELERS."

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There will be plenty of eyes on Tomlin as NFL fans look forward to what he does next in his career. For now, however, he's clearly not rushing anything.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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