One constant for Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during his tenure with the Steelers has been an almost impossible level of stubbornness to change. Whether it is on a micro-level within a game or more big picture philosophical stuff, Tomlin has historically been unwilling to adapt.
Instead, we’ve sat through press conference after press conference where Tomlin talks about execution and no need for big changes. But it looks like this is all about to change.
There’s a real possibility, based on recent events, the Steelers could be replacing as many as six assistant coaches this offseason. Coming off of a 12-4 season this might seem unusual. But when you consider how far this team fell in the final six games including a blowout loss in the first round of the playoffs, it puts the season in perspective, especially that 11-0 start.
But today’s announcement gives hope that Tomlin is growing as a coach. It is him finally admitting it is time to pull this team into the present with new ideas and new concepts. A fresh perspective on the game that can’t come soon enough.
However, it is also about self-preservation. Tomlin understands the last 10 years, his performance hasn’t lived up to the expectations of the fanbase and this franchise. Tomlin has an opportunity to save and even build on his legacy and these moves are going to decide how Tomlin is remembered.
