Steelers' Next Head Coach Could Be Shocking But Needed According To Reputable NFL Writer

The Pittsburgh Steelers, an NFL franchise known for its consistency and commitment to its head coaches, find themselves at a crossroads in the 2023 season. The team's storied history, characterized by numerous playoff appearances and Super Bowl victories, has given way to a string of disappointing seasons, sparking discussions about the future of Head Coach Mike Tomlin.

The Steelers' last playoff victory dates back to 2017, a stark contrast to their glorious past. The 2023 season has been particularly challenging, marked by losses to less than formidable opponents like the Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, and Indianapolis Colts. While Tomlin has maintained a winning record throughout his 16-year tenure as the Steelers' head coach, his 17th season may finally see the team fall below .500, an unprecedented occurrence under his leadership.

Tomlin, who famously led the Steelers to the Super Bowl XLIII victory in 2009, is a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. However, as the team faces a potential losing season, fans have grown increasingly vocal about their desire for change. The question looming over the Steelers' faithful is whether the organization, known for its reluctance to part ways with head coaches, will sever ties with Tomlin. Speculation abounds, ranging from Tomlin voluntarily stepping down, to the possibility of his contract not being renewed. The least likely scenario, it seems, is a mid-season firing or even an end of the year firing.

Should the Steelers decide to look for a new head coach, NFL writer Scott Kacsmar suggests a surprising candidate, Bobby Slowik, the current offensive coordinator for the Houston Texans. Slowik's hiring would represent a significant departure from the Steelers' tradition of emphasizing defense, but it could signal a willingness to adapt to the evolving NFL landscape.

“It would be remarkably different hiring for a Pittsburgh franchise that prides itself on defense, but it would also be a sign that the team is ready to get with the times and bring about real change on the field. Hire an offensive coach like Bobby Slowik, an understudy of Kyle Shanahan, and see if he can bring out the best in [Kenny] Pickett.”

Kacsmar points out that the modern NFL places a premium on high-powered offenses, and teams that fail to keep pace risk falling behind. Critics of Tomlin argue that his approach, rooted in a strong defense, is outdated in today's league. To contend for a Super Bowl, an offense capable of consistently scoring multiple touchdowns is essential.

“Getting Slowik out of Houston also could help weaken another AFC contender that the Steelers will have to deal with for likely years to come. The Texans already crushed the Steelers 30-6 earlier this year with Slowik making Tomlin’s defense look silly. That was one of three games this year that Tomlin lost by at least 14 points to a rookie coach, also losing 24-10 to Jonathan Gannon’s Cardinals and 30-13 to Shane Steichen’s Colts.”

Furthermore, bringing in Slowik could have the added benefit of weakening an AFC rival as noted by Kacsmar. The Texans handed the Steelers a resounding 30-6 defeat earlier in the season and in that game, Slowik's offensive strategy exposed Tomlin's defense. This highlighted a recurring issue, Tomlin's teams have been out coached, particularly by rookie coaches.

“Do you know how many 14-point wins Tomlin has in his last 56 games? One. Fans won’t mind having an offensive coach if the team gets back to winning games and playing well in the process. Under Tomlin these days, you either watch the Steelers pull off an ugly win, or get embarrassed in an ugly loss. Blame it on a seven-year itch without a playoff win, but don’t blame fans for having a wandering eye for someone new.”

Kacsmar underscores a concerning statistic that reflects the Steelers' recent struggles under Tomlin. The lack of substantial wins, coupled with a seven-year playoff victory drought, has left fans yearning for a change. They long for a return to consistent, competitive football, rather than the unpredictability that has characterized recent seasons.

Steelers Must Embrace Change For A Brighter Future

While the idea of Slowik as the Steelers' head coach may seem unconventional, it underscores the need for innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing NFL landscape. Whether the Steelers opt to part ways with Tomlin or retain his services, one thing is clear, a revamped, effective offense is imperative. The nightmare offensive performances witnessed by Steelers fans since the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger demand a solution.

Whether through a new head coach or a talented offensive coordinator, the Steelers must chart a new course to recapture their former glory. The franchise's storied history is a testament to its ability to adapt and evolve, and the time may have come for another chapter in the Steelers' illustrious journey.

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