### Mike Tomlin's Future in Question: Steelers Legend Calls for Change Amid Struggles Mike Tomlin, the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, is facing increasing scrutiny as the team struggles this season. Despite being the NFL's longest-tenured coach and never having a losing season in his 19 years with the franchise, Tomlin has not won a playoff game since 2016 and has been criticized by fans and former players alike. Notably, Steelers legends Ben Roethlisberger and James Harrison have publicly suggested that it may be time for a coaching change, with Roethlisberger even proposing that Tomlin consider a fresh start at Penn State [https://apnews.com/article/tomlin-roethlisberger-harrison-4210d40a7b512cf091a54186bf21be45][https://www.pennlive.com/steelers/2025/12/big-ben-thinks-mike-tomlin-needs-to-leave-steelers-for-a-fresh-start-and-go-to-penn-state.html]. ### Analyzing the Situation: Key Perspectives and Opinions 1. **Criticism from Former Players**: - Ben Roethlisberger has openly stated that it might be time for Tomlin to leave the Steelers, suggesting a fresh start could benefit both parties [https://www.themirror.com/sport/american-football/mike-tomlin-steeler-ben-roethlisberger-1542524]. - James Harrison has echoed similar sentiments, indicating that the franchise needs a change in leadership [https://apnews.com/article/tomlin-roethlisberger-harrison-4210d40a7b512cf091a54186bf21be45]. 2. **Tomlin's Record and Legacy**: - Tomlin has led the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in his second season but has not returned to the AFC Championship game since 2010. His playoff record since 2016 stands at 0-5 [https://apnews.com/article/tomlin-roethlisberger-harrison-4210d40a7b512cf091a54186bf21be45]. - Despite the criticism, he has maintained a winning record throughout his tenure, which complicates the narrative around his potential departure [https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-news-mike-tomlin-could-reportedly-part-ways-with-steelers-to-join-another-team]. 3. **Public Sentiment and Future Speculation**: - The fan base has expressed frustration, with chants of "Fire Tomlin!" becoming common during games [https://apnews.com/article/tomlin-roethlisberger-harrison-4210d40a7b512cf091a54186bf21be45]. - Analysts and former coaches, including Bruce Arians, have suggested that Tomlin might be better served by leaving the Steelers for a new opportunity [https://steelersdepot.com/2025/12/if-i-were-mike-i-would-want-to-get-out-bruce-arians-thinks-tomlin-best-served-by-leaving-steelers]. ### Evidence of Declining Performance and Support for Change - **Playoff Performance**: - Tomlin's playoff record since 2016: **0-5**. - Last Super Bowl appearance: **2010**. - **Public and Expert Opinions**: - Roethlisberger's suggestion for Tomlin to consider the Penn State job reflects a growing belief that a change could be beneficial for both the coach and the team [https://www.pennlive.com/steelers/2025/12/big-ben-thinks-mike-tomlin-needs-to-leave-steelers-for-a-fresh-start-and-go-to-penn-state.html]. - Bruce Arians and Rex Ryan have both indicated that a fresh start might be in Tomlin's best interest [https://steelersdepot.com/2025/12/if-i-were-mike-i-would-want-to-get-out-bruce-arians-thinks-tomlin-best-served-by-leaving-steelers][https://inews.zoombangla.com/rex-ryan-urges-steelers-do-mike-tomlin-a-favor-and-fire-him]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Tomlin and the Steelers In summary, **Mike Tomlin's future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is increasingly uncertain** as both fans and former players call for a change. The combination of a lack of playoff success since 2016 and the public's growing discontent suggests that a fresh start may be necessary. 1. **Tomlin's Legacy**: While he has a strong record, the absence of recent playoff success raises questions about his effectiveness. 2. **Calls for Change**: Influential figures like Roethlisberger and Harrison advocate for a new direction, potentially at Penn State. 3. **Future Implications**: The Steelers may need to consider a coaching change to revitalize the team and improve performance moving forward. The situation remains fluid, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial for the future of both Tomlin and the Steelers organization [https://apnews.com/article/tomlin-roethlisberger-harrison-4210d40a7b512cf091a54186bf21be45][https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-news-mike-tomlin-could-reportedly-part-ways-with-steelers-to-join-another-team].