Steelers' Mike Tomlin Abandons Press Conference During Question On Future

The Pittsburgh Steelers' season officially ended after they lost to the Buffalo Bills by a score of 31-17. All throughout the season, rumors have been swirling about the future of Mike Tomlin. Sources have had conflicting messages the whole time. Some think he will retire, some think he could be traded, and others think he will be extended. Steeler Nation is waiting to hear the truth, but one thing is certain: Tomlin has no interest in talking about it at all. 

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Gives Media No Answers On Future

During his postgame press conference, there was a long pause in questions before Brooke Pryor started asking about Tomlin's future. Before she could even get to the question, Tomlin just walked away.

"Mike, you have a year left on your contract, and..."

This is not even the first time that someone from the Steelers abandoned a press conference due to questions about their future. The only difference was Tomlin showed up and answered some questions. Previously, Mitch Trubisky reportedly straight up no showed a press conference after Kenny Pickett confirmed that he would get the starting nod over Trubisky after suffering an injury. 

This will only raise more questions, as opposed to answering anything. Tomlin is known for talking the media into circles when he is not giving excuses, but this is bizarre behavior from him. He never just leaves like he did, even though it has been suggested that he does not like certain people in the media. The rumor mill will keep on rolling, whether Tomlin likes it or not. These questions will be asked until a decision is officially made. 

No matter if he stays or goes, he needs to make his decision quickly. At the same time, if the Steelers do want to trade him, they need to get that done as soon as possible. Fans can debate whether he's the right man to lead this team or not, but if Tomlin does end up leaving Pittsburgh, they will need to catch up on coaching interviews, as many other teams are already deep into their search for their new head coaches. 

If Tomlin stays, it should be known quickly as well. It's easier for the team to start scouting, negotiate extensions, and make other offseason moves when they know who their head coach is. The worst-case scenario for the Steelers would be Tomlin retiring in February after all the top coaching candidates have already been hired. 

Either way, this will be a confusing time. If Tomlin is truly undecided like everyone thinks he is, it might take a while before any answers come out. The sooner he makes his decision, however, the better off the Steelers will be for the offseason. No matter what, we wish Tomlin the best of luck in his endeavors. 

What do you think about Mike Tomlin storming out of the press conference? Will he be the coach of the Steelers in 2024? Let us know in the comments.

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