Steelers' Art Rooney II Reveals Incredible Reason For Keeping Mike Tomlin

The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the best and most stable organizations in the history of the NFL. The franchise had a rocky beginning after being founded in 1933, but transformed into a dynasty during the 1970s. Since the organization began to find success under Head Coach Chuck Noll, the Steelers have had just two other head coaches: Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin. A lot of this consistency has to do with the success and results of these coaches, and also the philosophy of the Steelers organization.

Art Rooney II is the current owner and president of the Steelers, following in his father's footsteps. The organization has been passed down for three generations. The only other franchise to do that is the New York Giants. It has largely been run in the same way over the last 50 years or so. Tom Pelissero was a guest host on The Rich Eisen Show on Thursday, where he shared a conversation he had with Rooney II.

"It's the Steelers organizational philosophy. I talked with Art Rooney about this recently. It's like you extend Mike Tomlin after what, seven straight years without a playoff win? They've had three head coaches in 50 something years, Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher, and Mike Tomlin. I asked why is that the organizational philosophy? He said it's something he learned from his grandfather and his father, which was if you feel like you've got the right people, you stick by them. If the coach is still getting through to the players, and and you believe in them, you stick with them."

It's no secret there is a strong sense of loyalty within the Steelers organization. As well as pride. Of course, the organization is proud to only have three head coaches since 1969, where other franchises have three over a span of three years. Overall, these should be good qualities, but sometimes it hurts the Steelers.

There has been many instances where the philosophy of Pittsburgh's ownership has trickled down throughout the organization. Tomlin has stuck with members of his staff for way too long, with the prime example being Matt Canada. Canada served as the Steelers offensive coordinator for nearly three seasons. Not once did the Steelers' offense rank in the top 20 when it came to yardage and points, yet the organization and Tomlin continued to stick with Canada.

To some people's surprise, the Steelers extended Tomlin for another three years during the 2024 offseason. He was going into the last year of his deal, but is now locked up through the 2027 season. The fan base seemed to be split on the deal, as many are frustrated with the lack of recent postseason success.

By no means should Tomlin be fired, but it's safe to assume if any other coach in the league went seven straight seasons without a win in the playoffs they would be terminated. The Rooneys tradition of undying loyalty keeps him around, as long as Rooney II maintains the belief and trust in Tomlin.

Steelers' Russell Wilson Will Have Countless Opportunities

Pelissero shared this story of his conversation with Rooney II when he was asked if Justin Fields would end up starting any games in 2024. He said no, due to the organization's philosophy, which Tomlin coaches by. Russell Wilson is the presumed starter, and as long as Tomlin maintains belief in him, Wilson will continue to start.

Even if Wilson has a rough start to the season, it's likely he will remain the starter. Pittsburgh is likely to give Fields some playing time in his own packages that showcase his athletic ability, but Wilson should remain the starter for all 17 games. 

It's been a long draught in Pittsburgh when it comes to playoff wins, but ownership believes they have the right people in place to get the job done. A lot of that pressure will be on Wilson's shoulders in 2024.

What do you think of the Steelers' philosophy? Let us know in the comments below!

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