Mike Tomlin could be headed south.
NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that Tomlin may be looking for sunnier pastures after stepping down from the Steelers’ head coaching job on Tuesday.
“Mike Tomlin has told people that he would prefer to coach in a warm-weather environment, if it fits,” a source told Anderson.
It’s unclear whether Tomlin will jump right back into coaching, take a media gig or just take some time off, but he’d have no shortage of suitors if he chooses the former.
There are eight other job openings with the Giants, Falcons, Cardinals, Titans, Ravens, Browns, Raiders and Dolphins all looking for a new head coach.
Several of those destinations, including Atlanta, Arizona, Tennessee, Las Vegas and Miami, could fit the “warm-weather environment” Tomlin is reportedly looking for.
If he goes the television route, Fox has interest and is the favorite to land him, according to The Athletic.
Tomlin stepped down after 19 seasons at the helm following the Steelers’ first-round playoff home loss to the Texans on Monday night, which extended Pittsburgh’s drought to nine years without a postseason win.
He never had a losing season across his Steelers tenure and won the 2008 Super Bowl with the team.
“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team,” a statement from Tomlin on Tuesday read. “I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.
“I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team.”
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
