The Steelers are entering uncharted waters for the first time in 19 years. With Mike Tomlin stepping down, Pittsburgh will be searching for a new man to captain their franchise. Whoever is hired will be just the fourth head coach for the organization since 1970. While becoming the man in charge for a storied team like the Steelers will be a great honor, it’ll also leave a heavy burden. Not everyone is cut out for the job, and there’s a lot of directions ownership could take when hiring their guy. So, let’s look at some candidates who could become the new head coach for the black and gold.
Brian Flores
Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
After Flores’ stint in Miami went up in flames, he’s since evolved beyond that point and regained trust within league circles. His Vikings defense is a nightmare for quarterbacks. Under his leadership, the purple people eaters have logged 141 sacks. His aggressive yet meticulous scheme throws signal-callers off guard and allows his guys to dominate. Before Flores reignited league interest in him during his time in Minnesota, he worked as linebackers coach for Pittsburgh. Not only does he have a connection with the franchise, his intense coaching style and emphasis on toughness could mesh well with the team.
Jesse Minter
Aug 16, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter watches from the sidelines against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Minter is garnering a lot of attention around league circles. With how his defense has been playing in spite of talent deficiencies, it makes sense why he’s become a hot commodity. The Steelers would be wise to pursue the young mind. Pittsburgh’s older defense has struggled due to their outdated scheme. Infusing their ranks with Minter’s expertise could rekindle a defense that has underperformed as of late. In his first year as defensive coordinator, Minter’s unit was the top scoring defense. This season, they ranked ninth in points allowed, fifth in yards per game and fifth in turnovers forced.
Marcus Freeman
Nov 22, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman celebrates with players after scoring against the Syracuse Orange during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images
There’s been some murmurings going on regarding a possible move to the NFL for Marcus Freeman. First off, it’s important to note that Freeman’s recently revised contract with Notre Dame could pose an issue. Couple that with the fact that he outright stated he’d remain as coach for the Fighting Irish in 2026, all signs point to him staying in the collegiate ranks. Nevertheless, it’s not unheard of for a coach to leave in a similar situation. He’d be great fit with the Steelers, as his defensive background and culture building prowess suit what Pittsburgh needs.
Kevin Stefanski
Oct 5, 2025; Tottenham, United Kingdom; Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski looks on from the sideline during the third quarter of an NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
What may initially feel like a lateral move for the Steelers could be surprisingly beneficial. Stefanski knows how to navigate through a rebuilding team and field a respectable product. Stefanski’s scheme and development on the offensive side of the ball have made him a very desirable candidate for rebuilding teams. His mindset and style may be similar to what fans saw in Pittsburgh, but this time it’ll materialize with an offensive twist. It’d be a bizarre sight for the head coach of the franchise’s hated rival to be their new leader. Nevertheless, making that division rival seethe while their former coach finds success in Pittsburgh would be a welcome sight for Yinzers.
Arthur Smith
Dec 25, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith looks on before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Steelers fans may be pulling their hair out at the thought of Arthur Smith calling the shots. Unfortunately, there is a chance that team brass may choose to go with the in-house hire. Art Rooney II doesn’t inspire much hope, and he could choose to take the easy way out by promoting Smith. Smith hasn’t been terrible for the Steelers by any means. His quarterbacks haven’t given him the opportunity to find success, and he’s been able to trot out decent offensive attacks. Simply put though, his time in Atlanta and the underwhelming production in Pittsburgh don’t make Smith the most ideal of candidates.
Mike McCarthy
Nov 24, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy leaves the field after the game between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images
What Mike McCarthy accomplishes as head coach is raising the floor of a team. While the ceiling of said team may be limited, his presence keeps a franchise competitive. At first glance, McCarthy’s ability to maintain solid play may sound alluring given Pittsburgh’s current state. However, that’s simply not what the organization currently needs. If ownership were to give the reins to Mike McCarthy, it’d simply be a retread of Tomlin’s later years. What the Steelers need right now is someone who has high potential and would be willing to go through a rebuild. Someone like McCarthy would simply amount to kicking the can down the road.
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