No matter how the Steelers season concludes, don't expect the Steelers to fire or trade Mike Tomlin. Yes, there will be speculative reports coming out about his possible exit from Pittsburgh if he once again goes one-and-done in the playoffs. His failures in the postseason throughout his career have been a constant bruise on his Hall of Fame resume. Another failure would only prolong that.
Despite his failures in the postseason in recent years, it is unheard of for the Steelers to fire a Head coach, let alone one they just extended last offseason. The franchise has only had three top coaches since 1969, and they do nothing to change their tradition.
Tomlin might not have a losing season with Pittsburgh, but he has not been much of a success in the postseason, where things matter the most. Hypothetically, if the Steelers were to pull the chord on the long-time head coach, here are some of the top head coach candidates in 2025 to replace him.
Aaron Glenn, Lions Defensive Coordinator
Many have looked at the Lions offensive coordinator for a top job, but Aaron Glenn could get a long look. Detroit has plenty of quality coaches on their staff, and Glenn is someone who will get plenty of interviews in this hiring cycle. If Pittsburgh would move on from Tomlin, then they could stick with a defensive-style coach. If that were the case, then someone like Glenn would be a quality hire.
Mike Vrabel, Browns Coaching and Personnel Consultant
Many expect Mike Vrabel to become a top choice for the New England Patriots, and many other clubs looking for a Head coach. He has plenty of ties to the Patriots, but he once played for the Steelers during the early portion of his playing career. Hiring Vrabel would be the safest hire if Pittsburgh were willing to move on from Tomlin. He is a player's coach who knows how to motivate his club.
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Ben Johnson, Lions Offensive Coordinator
He has been rumored in past hiring cycles, but Ben Johnson remains picky for his first opportunity as a Head coach in the NFL. He is one of the best offensive minds in the NFL and would be the opposite of what Tomlin has formed in Pittsburgh. Johnson wants an electric high-scoring offense that can blow out teams. He would be a breath of fresh air for the Steelers organization.
Brian Flores, Vikings Defensive Coordinator
They should've never let him go in the first place, but Brian Flores would be another good hire. His tough militaristic style is something this team seems to need. He is familiar with a lot of the players since he was with the Steelers for a lone season just a couple of years ago. Since then, Flores has been terrific as the Vikings defensive coordinator. His link to the Steelers is tough to look past.
Joe Brady, Bills Offensive Coordinator
Throwing a name out there that has not been mentioned much in this hiring cycle. Joe Brady has been the offensive coordinator for the Bills for about a season and a half. Since he took over the play-calling duties, Josh Allen has become a top-three quarterback in the NFL. Brady also is a Penn State grad, so the Pennsylvania connection is there. Pittsburgh hiring him would be an option out of nowhere.