KEY POINT
- Steelers plan to hire Mike McCarthy, ending Mike Tomlin’s 19-year tenure.
- McCarthy brings 18 seasons of NFL head coaching experience, including a Super Bowl title.
- His arrival could affect quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future in Pittsburgh.
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are poised to hire veteran coach Mike McCarthy as their next head coach, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
McCarthy, 62, is expected to succeed Mike Tomlin, who stepped down after 19 seasons leading the team, marking one of the most significant coaching transitions in Steelers history.
Tomlin, who led the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in the 2008 season, announced his departure earlier this month. During his tenure, the team never had a losing season, but recent early playoff exits prompted the organization to consider a new approach.
McCarthy spent 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, winning Super Bowl XLV over the Steelers, and five seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. He posted a 49 35 regular-season record in Dallas, though playoff success was limited.
Known for quarterback development, McCarthy previously coached Aaron Rodgers, who now plays in Pittsburgh, though Rodgers’ role remains uncertain.
NFL analyst Ben Fischer, senior writer at Sports Illustrated, noted that McCarthy’s hiring reflects Pittsburgh’s desire for a head coach capable of immediate impact.
“McCarthy brings extensive experience managing high-profile quarterbacks and complex offenses. This gives the Steelers flexibility in roster decisions and strategic planning,” Fischer said.
Hall of Famer and former head coach Tony Dungy emphasized the importance of championship experience.
“Winning a Super Bowl is a rare achievement. McCarthy has proven he can guide a team through high pressure situations, which is exactly what Pittsburgh needs right now,” Dungy said.
Both experts agreed that McCarthy’s presence could influence decisions about roster composition and future quarterback leadership.
| Coach | Tenure | Regular-Season Record | Playoff Record | Super Bowls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chuck Noll | 1969–1991 | 209–124–4 | 16–8 | 4 |
| Bill Cowher | 1992–2006 | 161–99–1 | 10–9 | 1 |
| Mike Tomlin | 2007–2025 | 193–114–2 | 8–12 | 1 |
| Mike McCarthy | 2006–2018, 2020–24 | 174–112–2 | 11–11 | 1 |
Source: NFL historical records
Steelers president Art Rooney II highlighted McCarthy’s leadership and familiarity with the region.
“Mike’s experience, professionalism, and understanding of this organization make him an excellent choice to guide our team forward,” Rooney said.
Former Steelers offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner added that McCarthy’s expertise in quarterback development aligns with Pittsburgh’s immediate needs.
McCarthy inherits a roster blending veteran leaders and younger talent. Decisions regarding quarterback Aaron Rodgers and other key positions will shape the team’s competitiveness in the coming seasons.
The Steelers’ approach to blending McCarthy’s philosophy with the team’s culture will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike.
The Steelers’ reported plan to hire Mike McCarthy marks a pivotal shift in leadership strategy.
With extensive head coaching experience, playoff knowledge, and a Super Bowl pedigree, McCarthy begins a new chapter for one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises, aiming to balance continuity with renewed championship aspirations.