Schefter: Unknown Detail In Steelers' Contract With Mike Tomlin Changes Absolutely Everything

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it very clear that they have absolutely no intention of firing Head Coach Mike Tomlin, much to the dismay of many fans. The most likely way that he leaves in 2026 is by his own terms, whether he decides or resign from his position or request some kind of mutual parting. Despite his lack of playoff success in recent years, Tomlin still has control of his own situation, and a good run to end the season could get him back in the hearts of Steeler Nation. If not, the angry crowd will only get louder. 

Despite all that, the Steelers still have a massive decision to make soon. NFL insider Adam Schefter brought up a little piece from Tomlin's contract that could impact his future, as well as the future of the team. No one previously knew that it existed.

"After this season, Tomlin's contract will have two years remaining on it -- 2026 and a team option in 2027. But according to league sources, the Steelers must decide whether to pick up the option on Tomlin's contract by March 1," Schefter said. "There will be organizational meetings and decisions that occur, but not until after this season is complete, with a full body of work for all appropriate parties to review, sources said."

If the Steelers are even half as displeased with Tomlin's work as the fans are, they could decline his team option and make him coach for his job. There have been rumors that complacency has set in. Nothing lights a fire under a coach like telling him he has one chance to save his job or else the organization will be moving in a different direction. It would be unlikely to happen happen during the season, but afterwards, things could get interesting. 

If the Steelers do accept his team option, that tells him that the franchise is still happy with what he has done despite the lack of results. Pittsburgh does not fire head coaches ever, so he would be tied to the team through 2027 with a possible extension before that season to keep him around even longer, if the option is picked up. He will have to start winning playoff games to win the fans back and make sure the collective don't grow apathetic. 

Owner Art Rooney II has repeatedly been ridiculed for his approach to Tomlin, but it can all change here. He had claimed to be frustrated, but actions speak louder than words. Declining this option will send a very strong message that ownership does not believe Tomlin has not coached well enough to be trusted with the long-term future. He would then have just one chance to prove himself again, or could potentially be free to leave. 

The end of the 2025 season will have a lot of impact on this decision. With five games left to go, the Steelers still have full control of their destiny. At 6-6, the team is tied with the Baltimore Ravens for the AFC North lead with two games to play against them, including the upcoming Week 14 game, as well as the final game of the regular season. Beating the Ravens will fix a lot of woes, but winning a playoff game will give everyone hope again.

Steelers' Decision Could Directly Impact Tomlin's Move

One of the big narratives surrounding Tomlin staying in Pittsburgh is that there is no better job security than with the Steelers. However, his option being declined will show that his job is not secure at all. If that's the case, he may do what many of his apologists and ex-players have suggested and just leave on his own and try to prove himself elsewhere.

What do you think about Tomlin's fifth-year option? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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