Several Steelers Players Seriously Want Arthur Smith And Teryl Austin Fired

The Pittsburgh Steelers' long-time head coach, Mike Tomlin had an emotional message to his team less than 24 hours after their 30–6 home playoff loss to the Houston Texans. Tomlin called a team meeting and informed players that he would be stepping away after 19 seasons leading the franchise. For the 53-year-old coach, the weight of not winning a playoff game since the 2016 season had grown heavier with each passing year, and he ultimately felt it was time for change within the organization, even if Owner Art Rooney II did not necessarily share that view.

Tomlin’s departure marks the end of one of the most consistent coaching tenures in modern NFL history. Since taking over in 2007, he never posted a losing season and became widely respected for his leadership, accountability, and ability to command the locker room. However, the recent lack of postseason success created a growing sense of frustration both inside and outside the building. Sources say Tomlin’s decision was driven less by outside noise and more by his belief that the team needed a new voice to move forward.

More details have since emerged about the atmosphere within the locker room. In a new report from Steelers insider Mike DeFabo, one anonymous player revealed that while every player in the building loved and respected Tomlin, there was dissatisfaction with the current direction of the coaching staff. Specifically, players were reportedly unhappy with Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin and Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, which suggests that internal tensions may have played a role in the team’s continued struggles and in Tomlin’s ultimate decision to step away.

"Every single player in that building wants to play for Mike T," said one player. "Were guys upset with coordinators? Yes. Was it the head guy? No."

The Steelers brought in Smith with hopes that he could introduce a more physical, run-first identity while using play-action to open up the offense. While the unit did show some improvement and scored more points overall, many of the play calls were frequently questioned. 

At times, the offensive scheme did not make sense, particularly when it came to which players were getting opportunities compared to other talented playmakers on the roster who were not being featured enough.

As for Austin, his struggles have now spanned several seasons. Despite having immense talent on defense, led by superstars such as TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen, and others, the unit has failed to consistently perform at a dominant level. Meanwhile, defenses with far less talent have managed to be more effective, which has clearly contributed to growing frustration within the organization.

Steelers Will Now Enter A New Era In The Steel City

Now the Steelers move onward as they attempt to build a new era in Pittsburgh. The franchise has valued stability for decades, having employed only three head coaches since 1969, and now it will search for a fourth. That reality underscores both the gravity of this moment and the opportunity ahead. Fans are eager to learn who will be chosen to lead the team, and the anticipation grows with each passing day. 

The next head coach will set the tone, but the coordinator hires will be just as important to get right. Offensive and defensive direction, player development, and in-game decision-making must all improve. With a talented core already in place, the right staff could accelerate a turnaround quickly. Steelers supporters are hopeful that this transition delivers clarity, accountability, and a cohesive vision going forward.

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