Steelers' Cameron Heyward opens up about 'shocking' Mike Tomlin departure

A previous report detailed how Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II and Steelers players weren't expecting to learn on Jan. 13 that head coach Mike Tomlin was stepping away from the franchise after spending 19 seasons in his role. 

During the latest episode of his podcast posted on Wednesday, longtime Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward opened up about Tomlin's departure. 

Cameron Heyward urges everyone to "respect" Mike Tomlin's decision

"It was shocking for us," Heyward said about Tomlin informing players about his decision to step down, per Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot. "I don't think anybody went in that day thinking Mike T. was gone. I had multiple conversations 'cause there was a lot that needed to be said. And still a lot that needs to be said. I have to, we have to, respect his decision."

Like other current Pittsburgh players who have featured only for the Steelers during their careers, Heyward hasn't played for a head coach other than Tomlin at the highest level. While Tomlin guided the club to one Super Bowl championship, he lost the support of some fans and local media members because Pittsburgh lost the final seven playoff games of his tenure. 

"That dude is capable of whatever he wants because he is a genius when it comes to football," Heyward said about Tomlin. "Really studies the game. Really connects. If he goes into TV, he goes into any type of consultant, he's gonna be great."

Specifically, it was reported before Tomlin resigned that he could spend at least one season working as an NFL analyst. It has since been said that Fox is the favorite among the league's media partners to win the Tomlin sweepstakes. 

Cameron Heyward thought Mike Tomlin had more coaching left in the tank

"Last week might have been one of the craziest weeks I've ever had," Heyward added during his comments about Tomlin. "It didn't feel like it was his time. But the head coach, you have to guard your players of things, keep the business the business." 

Tomlin coaching a different team later this year reportedly is "definitely not happening." It's unknown if he could look to return to the sidelines in 2027.