Steelers' James Harrison Sounds Seriously Tired Of Mike Tomlin's Excuses

The Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been a polarizing topic in the Steel City for many seasons now. Of course, Tomlin has wowed many with his leadership skills, coaching talents, and everything he brings to the table as a football mind. His greatness is well on display in the fact that in 18 seasons, he’s never had a losing season. 

Still, this hasn’t got him off the hook, as the Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since the 2016 season. The playoff drought has been too long, and fans are growing tired. Now, it seems even some of his closest former players are coming out and saying the difficult truth. Many point to Tomlin not having a true quarterback post-Ben Roethlisberger, but former Steelers star James Harrison argues that is on Tomlin.

Harrison recently made waves on the The Why Willie Show w/ J.J. Williams, by stating that Tomlin bears responsibility for the team’s ongoing quarterback struggles. The former outside linebacker didn’t hold back, suggesting that the Steelers’ inability to develop or acquire a franchise-caliber quarterback since Roethlisberger’s retirement is a direct reflection of Tomlin’s decision-making. Harrison’s comments have struck a nerve in Steeler Nation, reigniting debates about the team’s approach to one of the most critical positions in football.

"If I’m the head coach of a football team and I’ve been the head coach of this football team for (18 years), and now the team’s not doing well — that all has to fall on my shoulders," Harrison said. "Because I’ve been here long enough to be able to draft who I want and put the guys in the positions that I need. For me to be like, ‘I haven’t been (able to) get this or get that.’ Well, I’m the guy who’s supposed to be getting that. And I’ve been here long enough to get it."

While Harrison’s criticism is harsh, it reflects growing frustration among fans and analysts alike. Tomlin’s reputation as a players’ coach and his steady regular-season success are undeniable, but the lack of postseason victories and a stable quarterback solution since the 2016 season loom large. Whether Harrison’s remarks serve as a wake-up call or just another voice in the chorus of discontent, one thing is clear: the Steelers’ quarterback situation remains a glaring issue that even Tomlin’s staunchest defenders can’t ignore.

Harrison wasn’t solely focused on the quarterback position. While he acknowledged it as a key issue, he made it clear that his concerns extend to the entire roster. He emphasized that the Steelers have multiple areas of concern and pushed back against the narrative that Tomlin does 'more with less,' refusing to accept it as an excuse for the team’s shortcomings.

It’s evident Harrison is questioning whether Tomlin has done enough to build a more competitive roster with the resources at his disposal. His critique touches on a sore spot for Steeler Nation—while Tomlin remains a beloved figure in franchise history, the prolonged playoff drought has left no one above scrutiny. Harrison’s comments highlight the lack of progress in constructing the right coaching staff and roster to end the team’s postseason struggles.

Steelers' James Harrison Just Calling A Spade A Spade

For several seasons now, the Steelers have failed to put together a championship-caliber roster capable of contending deep into January. Harrison’s words might be harsh, but they reflect the growing frustration of fans and former players alike. As the playoff drought drags on, the questions about Tomlin’s ability to steer the team back to prominence only grow louder.

The offense has struggled for years, and in 2024, even the defense—despite its plethora of playmakers—fell short when it mattered most. The team’s inability to meet expectations on either side of the ball has become a frustrating trend.

Hearing Harrison voice what’s on the minds of so many Steelers fans is a refreshing dose of honesty. His willingness to call out the underlying issues resonates deeply with a fanbase desperate for answers and accountability.

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