Vikings DC Brian Flores could be the best choice to fill the Steelers HC vacancy

"I think he's more than deserving, everything he's brought to our organization over these last three years," O'Connell said, via Emily Leiker of the Minnesota Star Tribune. "Not surprised people are wanting to talk to him about that role. Excited for him to do so, all while knowing our No. 1 priority -- really before the season even ended -- our No. 1 priority has been to get that thing done with him."

Brian Flores could be a perfect fit for the Steelers 

The Steelers and owner Art Rooney II aren’t likely to sign Harbaugh as their next head coach, but Flores, given his background as a defensive coordinator, would be a great choice to fill Tomlin's shoes. The Steelers have only had three coaches since 1969.

• Hall of Famer Chuck Knoll (1969-91): 193-148-1
• Hall of Famer Bill Cowher (1992-06): 149-90-1
• Tomlin (2007-25): 193-114-2

All have backgrounds in defense, which would continue the trend in their search for their fourth head coach. Flores led the Vikings to the third-best defense in the NFL (286.2 yards), while Tomlin’s defense ranked near the bottom (26th, 356.9 yards). 

With defense being one of their problems last season, bringing in Flores to stabilize things could help mold the Steelers into a championship-caliber team again. However, their offense was more of a concern (25th, 305.6 yards), and was nowhere to be seen in their blowout loss to the Houston Texans (30-6) in their fifth straight first-round exit from the playoffs since 2020. 

Adding more of an offensive-minded head coach could help the Steelers buck the trend of first-round exits. A more offensive head coach would also help mentor their next quarterback, with there being an opening with Aaron Rodgers becoming a free agent. Former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel would be a nice option if Pittsburgh decides to go that route.