A Full Inbox Has Steelers' Art Rooney II Understanding Frustrated Fans: "Actions Speak Louder Than Words"

The Pittsburgh Steelers blew it again in the postseason, and fans are outraged. The fingers pointed at Head Coach Mike Tomlin have grown in number, and the usual "Fire Tomlin" crowd got even louder. They are even calling for President Art Rooney II to step down. However, some insiders think that Rooney believes his reputation as an owner is tied to Tomlin's success or failure, and he won't want to go out on a low note. Tomlin still has two years on his contract, which was extended in 2024, and the Steelers rarely fire coaches under contract.  

This made the media and fans anxiously await Rooney's owner meeting. He generally has one a few weeks after the season ends to discuss how it went and what the plan for the franchise should be. In the past, Rooney, a lawyer by trade, has artfully dodged or given carefully constructed answers to his opinions. This isn't a surprise, considering Tomlin is a master at wordsmithing during press conferences too. While some local media felt that Rooney would be firmer with his answers because he is well aware of how upset the fans are, others thought he would make excuses about how difficult their final stretch of games was. 

In his press conference, the fans hoping to hear there would be massive coaching changes, namely the firing of Tomlin, were let down. Rooney said there will be changes, but not "wholesale ones." However, according to a tweet from 93.7 The Fan, Rooney acknowledged fans' feelings, saying they have been letting him know.

It will be interesting to see what those "actions" will be. While it is apparent firing Tomlin won't be part of the plan, others hope that Rooney forces the Super Bowl-winning coach to take a step back from the nitty-gritty of the offense and defense. Fans quickly point out that nearly everything has changed except the head coach in Tomlin's 18 seasons: all the assistant coaches, quarterback, offensive playmakers, offensive line, the entire defense, and so on, and yet the results have been the same. The Steelers haven't won a postseason game since the end of the 2016 season. 

This would mean that Tomlin would relinquish full control to Arthur Smith and Teryl Austin and focus on leadership, an area where most agree he excels. Tomlin is often called a "players coach," but his players are quick to defend him, calling him an exceptional coach and frequently saying he is the best one they have ever played for. 

Rooney will have to put his money where his mouth is and find some way to bring about a substantial change that makes fans feel heard. This could mean hiring a special assistant coach to act as a consultant, as they did with Brian Flores. 

Does Steelers' Art Rooney II Look Even Worse Thanks To His Brother?

Recently, Jim Rooney, Art's brother, said the team performs in an above-average manner and implied they are ok with that. While Jim, who is an author, doesn't work as a part of the day-to-day operations, it was disheartening to hear someone in the family say this. 

This made former NFL General Manager Doug Whaley say that it sounded like they were discussing the Pittsburgh Pirates rather than the Steelers. The standard for the Steelers and the Rooney family has never been that above .500 is good enough. The standard has consistently been winning Lombardi Trophies. While Art is still in charge of the team, he must show fans that he carries on that proud tradition. 

Do you think Art Rooney II's actions will speak louder than words this offseason? Tell us what you think below!

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