Steelers planning to hire Mike McCarthy as next head coach to replace Mike Tomlin

· New York Post

A new era in Pittsburgh is here.

Pittsburgh is planning to hire Mike McCarthy as its next head coach, according to multiple reports. A deal is being worked toward, though details of the potential contract are not yet known.

McCarthy, a Super Bowl winner in 2011 with the Packers, previously coached the Cowboys from 2020-24 before the two parted ways.

He did not coach this past season.

Mike McCarthy throws a challenge flag during the fourth quarter against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium on January 05, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. Getty Images

The Steelers were one of 10 teams seeking new leadership this offseason following Tomlin’s resignation after 19 seasons at the helm.

His decision came one day after the Texans toppled the Steelers in the wild-card round, extending Pittsburgh’s playoff win drought to nine years.

“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Tomlin said in a statement earlier this month.

“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team. I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.

Mike Tomlin coached his final game for the Steelers on Jan. 12, 2026. Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

“… While this chapter comes to a close, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization, and I will forever be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”

Tomlin went 193-114-2 in the regular season and 8-12 in the playoffs. He never produced a losing season and coached the Steelers to a Super Bowl win in February 2009.

Assessing the quarterback position will be one of the first orders of business for TKTK.

Aaron Rodgers spent the past year with Pittsburgh, and it remains to be seen if the 42-year-old quarterback will call it a career.

ESPN reported Jan. 18 that the Steelers still “remain open” to welcoming back Rodgers.

McCarthy coached Rodgers while the two were in Green Bay, ironically beating Pittsburgh for the Super Bowl in 2011.

McCarthy would become just the fourth Steelers head coach since 1969 (Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher and Tomlin).