Steelers' James Harrison Wanted To Coach In Pittsburgh But Team Never Showed Interest

During the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 13 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, former stars James Harrison and Ben Roethlisberger livestreamed their reactions to the game. The three and a half hour broadcast was filled with engaging commentary, laughs, and plenty of insights into the Steelers' current season. As the game unfolded, Harrison and Roethlisberger shared more than just their thoughts on the action, with Harrison revealing some surprising behind-the-scenes stories.

One of the most intriguing topics that came up during the stream was Harrison's desire to return to Pittsburgh in a coaching role. Harrison, who had a legendary career with the Steelers, expressed his interest in helping the team by joining the coaching staff. Like several former Steelers players who have transitioned into coaching positions, Harrison felt he could bring valuable experience and knowledge to the team. He seemed genuinely eager to contribute to Pittsburgh’s success once again.

However, despite his enthusiasm, Harrison revealed that he never received a response from the Steelers about his coaching aspirations. He admitted that while he reached out to the organization, he never heard back regarding the possibility of joining the coaching staff. It was a candid moment, highlighting the missed opportunity for a potential reunion between Harrison and the team that made him a Steelers legend.

"Let’s just say I put a feeler out there, but I got no response," Harrison said.

While Harrison quickly made it clear that Pittsburgh didn’t seem to have any real interest in bringing him onto their staff, Roethlisberger stepped in to share his own thoughts on the idea of Harrison becoming a coach. 

Roethlisberger believes Harrison would have made a great addition to the Steelers' coaching staff.

"You always have more respect for coaches that had played," Roethlisberger said. "You know he tells you something and you take it because that guy has been out there. Not taking away anything away from coaches that we have had that hadn’t played. I had some coaches that I loved that hadn’t played, but just something when James Harrison is telling you what to do. You just do it."

During the 2024 offseason, Harrison was a frequent presence around the team. He even hilariously crashed General Manager Omar Khan’s interview on The Pat McAfee Show, where Khan admitted that Harrison often just hangs around. McAfee jokingly remarked that no one would ever want to be the one to tell Harrison to leave, given how intimidating his presence is.

Steelers' James Harrison Coached Up Nick Herbig

Harrison was also seen passing on his knowledge to rising star pass rusher Nick Herbig, teaching him one of his legendary moves. It’s clear that Herbig has been studying Harrison’s techniques and incorporating them into his own game. 

This was evident when Herbig made another splash play against the Bengals, strip-sacking Joe Burrow while Payton Wilson scooped up the ball and scored.

While the exact reasons for the Steelers’ lack of interest in Harrison remain unclear, it’s possible they simply didn’t have a spot for him at the time. However, there may be an opportunity in the future. 

Former Steelers star Joey Porter made a positive impact during his time on the staff, and it’s likely that Harrison could do the same. There’s always a chance that one day, the Steelers will reach out to him to bring his invaluable experience to the coaching staff.

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