Report addresses whether Mike Tomlin is on hot seat

Aug 30, 2018; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin watches the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports

Would the Pittsburgh Steelers really consider firing Mike Tomlin amid a season that is rapidly slipping away?

Some local reports late last week suggested that the Steelers might be considering a coaching change for the 2024 season, but that appears unlikely. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, nobody in the organization expects Tomlin to be fired this season, and owner Art Rooney II is expected to exercise patience, even as the team continues to struggle, particularly on offense.

There are real problems in Pittsburgh at the moment. After a 7-4 start, the Steelers have suffered back-to-back losses to Arizona and New England, putting their playoff chances in serious doubt. Tomlin usually avoids strong criticism because of how competitive his teams are, but even that has changed in recent weeks.

The Steelers are notoriously patient, and the franchise has had just three head coaches since 1969. Tomlin is not going anywhere during the season. That may change after the season, but even that seems unlikely unless the Steelers completely fall apart down the stretch.