A constant for Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during his tenure with the Steelers was an almost impossible degree of stubbornness to change. Whether at the micro level in a game or more philosophical things with a bigger picture, Tomlin was historically unwilling to adapt.
Instead, we attended press conference after press conference where Tomlin talks about execution and no need for major changes. But it looks like all of this is about to change.
Based on recent events, there is a real possibility that the Steelers could replace as many as six assistant coaches this off-season. This may seem unusual after a 12-4 season. But when you consider how far this team fell in the last six games, including a blowout loss in the first round of the playoffs, that puts the season in perspective, especially that start from 11-0.
But today’s announcement gives hope that Tomlin is growing as a coach. He finally admits that it is time to move this team into the present with new ideas and new concepts. A fresh take on the game that can’t come fast enough.
However, it is also about self-preservation. Tomlin understands that his performance over the past 10 years has not met the expectations of the fan base and this franchise. Tomlin has the ability to save and even build his legacy and these moves will decide how Tomlin will be remembered.