Ryan Clark Believes Mike Tomlin Should Consider Coaching Elsewhere
Longtime Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has been a model of consistency over his 18-year tenure, never experiencing a losing season. Yet, ESPN analyst and former Steelers safety Ryan Clark believes it may be time for Tomlin to explore opportunities beyond Pittsburgh.
During a recent appearance on First Take, Clark praised Tomlin’s impressive legacy but suggested that a change could benefit both sides. While acknowledging Tomlin as a future Hall of Famer, Clark argued that his voice may no longer carry the same weight within the organization and that a fresh start might reinvigorate his coaching career.
“I think Mike Tomlin should be coaching somewhere else,” Clark said. “He’s an incredible leader and tactician, but I believe he’s taken this team as far as it can go without a top-tier quarterback. His impact could be even greater with a new team looking for experienced leadership.”
Tomlin has kept the Steelers in playoff contention year after year, but Clark implied that organizational limitations—particularly at quarterback—have capped their potential. The team is currently reshaping its roster, having traded wide receiver George Pickens and continuing to assess its quarterback depth.
If Tomlin ever decided to part ways with the Steelers, he’d likely be one of the most sought-after coaching candidates in the league. His proven ability to lead and develop talent would make him a strong fit for a franchise in need of stability and experience. Until then, however, all eyes remain on how Pittsburgh handles the remainder of the offseason.
