Mike Tomlin is not the problem of Pittsburgh Steelers, It is actually this | Opinion
Mike Tomlin Is Not the Problem for the Pittsburgh Steelers: Here’s What Really Is | Opinion
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, boasting six Super Bowl championships, a fiercely loyal fan base, and a tradition of excellence. However, recent seasons have been marked by mediocrity, and this year’s performance has left many fans frustrated. The finger-pointing has inevitably begun, with some calling for head coach Mike Tomlin’s job. But is Tomlin really the issue? The evidence suggests otherwise.
Instead of placing blame on Tomlin, Steelers fans and analysts should take a deeper look at systemic issues within the organization that have plagued the team for years. These problems include an outdated offensive strategy, inconsistent quarterback play, and questionable decisions in the front office. Here’s why Tomlin is not the root of the Steelers’ struggles — and what the real problems are.
Mike Tomlin’s Proven Track Record
Mike Tomlin, now in his 17th season as the Steelers’ head coach, has never had a losing season. He has guided the team to two Super Bowl appearances, winning one, and has consistently kept the Steelers competitive, even in seasons where the roster lacked elite talent.
Tomlin’s ability to motivate players and navigate adversity has been evident. From handling the fallout of Antonio Brown’s departure to managing the transition after Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, Tomlin has kept the team afloat. Few coaches in the NFL can boast his level of consistency in such a volatile league.
Yet, despite his impressive resume, criticism often falls squarely on Tomlin’s shoulders. Why? Some argue it’s a case of familiarity breeding contempt. Steelers fans are accustomed to winning and hold their team to a higher standard. But it’s important to recognize that no coach can win consistently without the right pieces in place.
The Real Problem: Offensive Woes
The Steelers’ offense has been a glaring issue for years, and it’s clear that their current struggles stem from a lack of creativity and execution. Offensive coordinator Matt Canada has faced heavy criticism for his unimaginative play-calling and inability to adapt. Canada’s system has been described as predictable, lacking the explosiveness needed to compete in today’s NFL.
The offensive line, while improved compared to past seasons, still struggles to protect the quarterback consistently and open up lanes for the running game. As a result, the Steelers’ offense has often relied on short, conservative passes and failed to stretch the field.
Additionally, the team’s skill position players, while talented, have been underutilized. Players like George Pickens and Najee Harris have shown flashes of brilliance but are often left frustrated by a scheme that doesn’t play to their strengths. Until the offensive philosophy changes, the Steelers will remain stagnant, regardless of who’s coaching.
Inconsistent Quarterback Play
The Steelers’ decision to draft Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft signaled their commitment to finding a franchise quarterback. While Pickett has shown promise, he has yet to deliver the consistent performances needed to elevate the team.
Some of Pickett’s struggles can be attributed to growing pains. Young quarterbacks often take time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. However, he’s also been hampered by poor offensive play-calling and a lack of support from the offensive line.
The Steelers’ front office must take accountability for not adequately addressing the quarterback position after Roethlisberger’s retirement. Instead of aggressively pursuing a proven veteran or making bold moves in the draft, they’ve placed the burden on Pickett to develop quickly.
Front Office Decisions and Drafting Issues
Another area of concern is the Steelers’ front office. While general manager Omar Khan has made some savvy moves since taking over in 2022, the team’s draft strategy and free agency decisions in previous years have left holes in the roster.
For instance, the Steelers have struggled to find reliable depth at key positions. The offensive line rebuild has been slow, and the secondary remains a weak point despite the addition of standout safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Furthermore, their reliance on mid-round draft picks to fill crucial roles has often backfired, leaving the team thin when injuries strike.
In contrast, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers have embraced aggressive approaches to roster-building, leveraging trades and free agency to bolster their lineups. The Steelers, by comparison, have been overly conservative, prioritizing tradition over innovation.
What Needs to Change
For the Steelers to return to prominence, the organization must make bold changes. This begins with addressing the offensive coordinator position. A fresh voice with a modern approach to play-calling could unlock the potential of the team’s young talent.
Additionally, the front office must be willing to make aggressive moves in free agency and the draft. Investing in the offensive line and adding playmakers on both sides of the ball should be top priorities.
Finally, the team must stay patient with Kenny Pickett while giving him the tools to succeed. Surrounding him with a better supporting cast and a more dynamic offensive scheme will allow him to grow into the franchise quarterback the Steelers hope he can become.
Conclusion
Blaming Mike Tomlin for the Steelers’ struggles is shortsighted. While no coach is perfect, Tomlin has proven time and again that he can lead and inspire his team under challenging circumstances. The real issues lie in the offensive strategy, quarterback development, and front office decisions.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have the foundation to be competitive, but change is needed to take the team to the next level. Instead of calling for Tomlin’s head, fans should demand accountability from those responsible for roster construction and offensive planning. With the right adjustments, the Steelers can once again become a force in the NFL.
