PITTSBURGH The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to interview veteran NFL coach Mike McCarthy regarding their head coaching opening, league sources confirmed Friday. The move highlights the franchise’s commitment to evaluating experienced leadership as it seeks a successor to Mike Tomlin, who recently stepped down after 19 seasons at the helm.
McCarthy, 62, is a Pittsburgh native with an extensive NFL resume, including head coaching stints with the Green Bay Packers (2006–2018) and Dallas Cowboys (2020–2024). His connection to the city and early-career work with Steelers general manager Omar Khan in New Orleans in 2000 adds local context to the potential .
KEY POINT
- Mike McCarthy, former Packers and Cowboys head coach, is expected to interview for the Steelers’ head coaching position.
- McCarthy brings over a decade of NFL head coaching experience, including a Super Bowl title and multiple division championships.
- His Pittsburgh roots and prior working relationship with GM Omar Khan offer organizational familiarity and potential cultural fit.
The Steelers launched their head coaching search immediately following Mike Tomlin’s resignation, a rare and significant event in NFL coaching circles.
As part of that process, the team is expected to add McCarthy to a growing list of candidates under consideration. His interview is part of a broader evaluation strategy aimed at balancing experience with organizational fit.
McCarthy’s NFL coaching career is marked by consistent regular-season success and championship experience. Leading the Packers to Super Bowl XLV in 2011, he also guided Dallas to three consecutive 12-win seasons from 2021 to 2023.
His tenure in Dallas concluded after the 2024 season, when the franchise promoted Brian Schottenheimer as head coach.
Born in Pittsburgh’s Greenfield neighborhood, McCarthy played college football locally and began coaching at the University of Pittsburgh before moving into the NFL coaching ranks.
His professional history includes early collaboration with Omar Khan, now the Steelers’ general manager, strengthening his potential candidacy.
McCarthy’s potential hiring presents both advantages and challenges. Analysts highlight his ability to manage winning teams, develop quarterbacks, and maintain playoff-level consistency.
“A return to Pittsburgh for McCarthy isn’t just a homecoming story; it represents continuity and leadership experience,” said NFL analyst John Clayton.
However, some experts caution that recent playoff performances, including an 11-11 postseason record, may be scrutinized by Steelers management seeking long-term playoff stability.
“McCarthy’s track record is impressive, but Pittsburgh’s organizational culture demands sustained postseason success,” added former NFL executive Michael Lombardi.
League insiders note McCarthy’s Pittsburgh background may resonate with fans and stakeholders alike, emphasizing a narrative of homegrown leadership.
Analysts suggest his familiarity with local culture and organizational structures could facilitate smoother integration.
“Experience and familiarity make him a logical candidate, especially for a franchise that values stability,” said Clayton.
The Steelers’ search remains active, with interviews expected to include both veteran coaches and promising coordinators.
McCarthy’s potential addition underscores the team’s consideration of proven leadership while maintaining flexibility to explore innovative coaching strategies.
Decisions emerging from this search could also influence future personnel moves, particularly around key offensive positions, as the team positions itself for the 2026 season.
Should McCarthy be formally interviewed, it would signify a blend of Pittsburgh heritage and extensive NFL leadership experience in the Steelers’ coaching search.
The franchise, navigating a rare transition, appears to prioritize candidates capable of balancing continuity, culture, and competitive performance.