Former Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Gets Direct About NFL Coaching Return

The Pittsburgh Steelers are deep into their first training camp under Mike McCarthy, but Mike Tomlin remains one of the biggest names connected to the organization. Tomlin stepped away after 19 seasons in Pittsburgh, ending one of the longest and most recognizable coaching runs in franchise history.

For nearly two decades, Steelers fans watched Tomlin handle every major moment from the sideline. He won a Super Bowl, reached another, never had a losing season, and became one of the most quoted coaches in the NFL. The end of his time in Pittsburgh created plenty of debate, but it also left many wondering if he is truly finished coaching.

Tomlin gave fans another reason to ask that question Thursday night. The 54-year-old made his NBC Sports debut ahead of the Hall of Fame Game between the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals, joining the Football Night in America crew with Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth.

The new role gives Tomlin an opportunity to stay close to the game without dealing with the nonstop pressure that comes with leading an NFL team. Still, Collinsworth and Tirico got a candid answer when they asked the former Steelers head coach about potentially returning to coaching someday.

"You know, I have not thought a whole lot about it yet," Tomlin said. "Because, mainly, I feel like I haven’t missed anything yet. When those regular-season balls start snapping, that’s when I’ll start getting a little twitch, a little bit."

That is the most honest answer Tomlin could have given. He is not announcing an NFL return, and he is clearly enjoying the break after spending nearly two decades carrying the responsibility of one of football’s most demanding jobs. At the same time, he did not slam the door shut either.

The regular season is different for people who have spent their lives coaching. Training camp can bring back memories, but the weekly preparation, game planning, and rush of Sundays are where coaches often feel the real pull. Tomlin admitted that the moment he hears footballs snapping in meaningful games, he may start to miss the life he just left behind.

Tomlin also made it clear that his time at Saint Vincent College came with plenty of history. While the current Steelers are learning McCarthy’s way of doing things in Latrobe, Tomlin spent countless summer days building routines, holding meetings, and preparing Pittsburgh for another season.

"Hey, I did a calendar year of my life, I counted the days, man," Tomlin said. "I did over a calendar year of my life in that RA suite in Rooney Hall at Saint Vincent College. Love St. Vincent. Awesome training camp site. Didn’t necessarily love the dorm room."

Steelers Could See Tomlin Coach Again

Tomlin’s comment about not missing coaching yet should not be treated like a retirement announcement. He has earned the chance to spend time with family, work in television, and experience a football season without having to answer for every decision made inside the Steelers facility.

But the 'little twitch' comment will keep the speculation alive. Tomlin is still young by NFL coaching standards, and there will be plenty of organizations interested if he ever decides he wants to return. His success in Pittsburgh, ability to command a locker room, and experience handling pressure would make him one of the biggest names in any future coaching cycle. 

For now, Steelers fans will get to see a different side of Tomlin on NBC as Aaron Rodgers rides off into the Steel City sunset.

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