According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Pittsburgh Steelers will maintain Mike Tomlin as head coach in 2024, as he has informed his team that he intends to stay next season despite reports of stepping down.
Tomlin allegedly told players and staff at the team’s final meeting that speculation about his departure from the organization is “unfounded” and that he intends to return for the 2024 season.
This comes after weeks of stories indicating he could leave the team in the offseason and explore taking a break from football, or that the management will attempt to trade him elsewhere. The most recent rumor came from NBC’s Mike Florio, who indicated he will consult with his family before committing to next season.
He was asked about the matter during the team’s Wild Card round playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, but walked out of the news conference without responding.
Tomlin has one year left on his current contract, but Team President Art Rooney II stated during training camp this summer that he expected an extension to be completed.
“We’ve done the contract at various points, and people seem to read more into it than is necessary,” Rooney told Steelers Nation Radio. “The deal will be completed at the appropriate time. As Omar mentioned, I expect Mike to stay much longer than his current deal. “We’ll finish it when the time comes.”
Tomlin will address the media one last time before the Steelers’ offseason begins.
