Mike Tomlin is already teasing a return to coaching

Former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Mike Tomlin is already teasing a return to coaching

By Ernesto Cova | Last updated Sep 8, 2026 5:13 PM ET

Mike Tomlin spent 19 years leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to non-losing seasons.

While postseason success became elusive in recent years, he still has a Super Bowl ring and countless improbable wins on his résumé.

That's why, as much as he's enjoying life after football, the renowned head coach won't rule out returning to the sidelines at some point.

Talking to Cris Collinsworth, Tomlin admitted that, while he probably wouldn't consider taking any head-coaching job, he wouldn't rule out the possibility of coming back.

Mike Tomlin won't shut the door on a coaching comeback

"It's certainly not a 32-team league for me, but I've also learned to never say never," Tomlin said. "I love to coach, I love all the challenges of the profession. I love the being a part of the growth and development of young people individually, I love the measurement of the seven-day cycle, but I also have enjoyed the last six months; life on this other side that I had no idea about."

"Never say never." - Mike Tomlin when asked about returning to coaching by @CollinsworthPFF pic.twitter.com/JIV7SfY5HR
— PFF (@PFF) September 8, 2026

Tomlin has been very vocal about how much he needed this time off after so many years of never-ending grind.

That said, he's a fierce competitor, and there's something about the league that often drives its personalities right back to it.

Most Steelers fans would agree that it was time for a change, but they also hold him in high regard and would probably welcome him back with open arms if the franchise ever needed him.

If he's available, he'd instantly be one of the most — if not the most — sought-after commodities in the head-coaching market almost right away.

He'll get to be selective and nearly handpick his next destination. He's enjoying life now, but someone might make him an offer that's just too good to reject.

Ernesto Cova

Ernesto is a bilingual (English-Spanish) sports writer with over eight years of experience covering major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Ernesto’s work focuses on providing insightful, up-to-date coverage of sports, blending his expertise in sports psychology with a passion for analyzing player performance, team dynamics, and trade developments across various sports leagues

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