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Steelers hire Mike McCarthy as next head coach

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By James Parker | Last updated Jan 24, 2026 3:41 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers are hiring Mike McCarthy to be the team’s next head coach, per NFL insider Adam Schefter.

Sources: Steelers plan to hire former Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy as their head coach. pic.twitter.com/lsaFyBVUjp

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 24, 2026

McCarthy will officially replace Mike Tomlin and become just the fourth head coach for the Steelers since 1969. McCarthy is from Pittsburgh and now has the chance to coach his hometown team.

The hiring also marks a reunion between McCarthy and QB Aaron Rodgers, who won a Super Bowl together with the Green Bay Packers. McCarthy spent years on the Dallas Cowboys as well, racking up a career coaching record of 174–112–2.

The Steelers have a long track record of making great head coaching choices. Historically, the’ve been a gritty team that embraced a culture of defense. As it’s more important now than ever to have a strong offense, McCarthy could contribute to a change of identity in Pittsburgh.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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