The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 season ended in devastating fashion, as the team dropped their final five games in a heartbreaking collapse. Now, the Steelers face an uphill battle as they desperately work to address the issues that caused their late-season downfall. Fans across Steeler Nation are calling for significant changes, particularly within the coaching staff, to ensure that the team can bounce back and avoid a similar fate in the future.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mike Tomlin looks on during loss to the Bengals in the 2024 NFL season.
One of the most prominent voices among fans is the call for Head Coach Mike Tomlin’s departure. However, despite the frustration brewing in Pittsburgh, it seems highly unlikely that Tomlin will be fired. The Steelers’ front office has made it clear that they plan to move forward with Tomlin at the helm in 2025, continuing his tenure as head coach.
While Tomlin’s position appears secure for now, the same cannot be said for other members of the coaching staff. Fans are eagerly hoping for changes in other key areas, and while there have been some moves made, it’s uncertain whether they’ll be enough to reverse the team's fortunes. One of the more notable adjustments has been the hiring of Gerald Alexander as the new defensive backs coach, a move that has brought some optimism to the Steelers’ secondary. Alexander coached on the Steelers staff back in 2022 and 2023 as the assistant defensive backs coach.
@CameronWolfe / X
Steelers' Gerald Alexander during his time with the Raiders.
However, as the dust settles after the 2024 season, another significant development has raised eyebrows among Steelers fans. It was recently reported that the contract of Secondary Coach Grady Brown expired at the end of the season. Brown had earned a reputation as a rising star in the coaching ranks, and his departure would be a tough blow to the Steelers’ defensive staff. Many fans have come to see him as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise challenging season, and they’re eager to see him return in 2025.
With Alexander now in the fold, questions are mounting about what this means for Brown's future in Pittsburgh. While some fans are hopeful that Brown could be promoted to a more prominent role on the defensive staff, there are growing concerns that the Steelers may lose him altogether. The possibility of seeing him walk away from the team is a troubling thought for many, as Brown has garnered attention and praise from around the league for his coaching prowess.
Steelers In Danger Of Losing Rising Star Coach Grady Brown
Losing Brown would be a tough pill to swallow for the Steelers, especially since he’s one of the few coaches on staff who has consistently generated positive buzz in the coaching community. While Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith has also received praise, Steelers fans haven’t been as enthusiastic about him as the rest of the league has been. Brown, however, has gained widespread recognition for his work, and his departure would feel like a missed opportunity for the Steelers.
As the Steelers look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the coaching staff will be a major focal point in their efforts to turn things around. The team’s future success may hinge on whether they can retain key figures like Brown, who could play a critical role in helping the defense reach new heights. With so much uncertainty surrounding the coaching staff, the Steelers’ front office faces an important decision in how they move forward and whether they can keep the talent that’s starting to gain traction within their ranks.
Yahoo Sports
Steelers Secondary Coach Grady Brown yelling during a game.
It would be surprising for the Steelers to simply let Brown walk. Unless they feel that while he’s deserving of a promotion, they’re not prepared to offer him one. With Alexander now on board, the team’s decision on their coaching staff could have a significant impact. Alexander and Brown previously worked together on the staff, and the prospect of seeing them reunited could be an exciting development for the Steelers' defense.
However, as the offseason progresses, some are starting to believe that Brown might not be part of the Steelers’ coaching staff in 2025. It will be intriguing to see how the team chooses to handle the situation.
#SteelerNation
