The Pittsburgh Steelers are about to look very different. For the first time in almost two decades, the team is preparing to welcome a new leader to the head coaching position. Mike Tomlin was a tremendous leader of men, accomplishing countless accolades during his time in Pittsburgh. At 53 years old, he has decided it’s time to step away, spend more time with his family, and embrace a less stressful lifestyle. Steelers fans will surely miss Tomlin’s leadership, but many also recognize that a fresh start was inevitable.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin looks off into the distance and roams the practice field as his team works out during a 2025 training camp practice at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Now, the Steelers are moving forward in their search for the next head coach. The organization is officially requesting interviews with top candidates who could continue the franchise’s tradition of defensive excellence while bringing their own vision to the team. This transition marks the beginning of a new era in Pittsburgh, one that fans hope will blend the team’s storied past with innovative leadership for the future.
On Wednesday, two new names entered the picture, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. He reported that the Steelers have requested interviews with Los Angeles Chargers Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter and Minnesota Vikings Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores.
Steelers request to interview Brian Flores, Jesse Minter, Nate Scheelhaase, Chris Shula, Anthony Weaver for vacant HC position, per @TomPelisserohttps://t.co/SDcBRaezXV pic.twitter.com/K2yjG8y80R
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) January 14, 2026
Both candidates are respected for their defensive acumen and leadership skills, and their potential arrival in Pittsburgh has fans and analysts alike eager to see how the next chapter of Steelers football will unfold.
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Chargers Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter stands next to Head Coach Jim Harbaugh before a home game.
Minter is 42 years old and widely known for his work on the defensive side of the football. While there have been concerns about his units’ ability to stop the run, Minter is praised for his aggressive, versatile schemes and his ability to adapt to different situations on the field.
His leadership has been lauded on multiple occasions by respected voices around the NFL, who highlight his energy, communication skills, and ability to inspire players. However, some analysts do question his relative inexperience at the highest level, noting that he has yet to serve as a head coach in the NFL.
Steelers Have Chance To Bring Back Brian Flores To Pittsburgh
On the other side of the equation is Flores, a coach Steelers fans are already familiar with. Many in Pittsburgh view Flores in the highest regard and have expressed deep regret that the franchise was unable to retain him in previous years.
He joined the Vikings in hopes of earning another head coaching opportunity at some point, and now during this cycle, he may have the chance to return to Pittsburgh as the team’s head coach.
Wilfredo Lee / AP
Ex-Dolphins Head Coach Brian Flores looks on during a game.
Flores brings a wealth of experience, a proven defensive mindset, and a reputation for strong leadership, all of which make him an attractive candidate for a franchise that wants to maintain its tradition of defensive excellence while ushering in a new era.
Both candidates present distinct advantages. Minter represents youthful energy and innovative defensive strategies, while Flores offers experience, familiarity with the Steelers’ culture, and a track record of success in high-pressure situations.
As the organization begins interviews and evaluations, Steelers fans are sure to be engaged in every development, hoping that the next head coach will not only honor the legacy Tomlin built but also guide the team toward a new chapter of competitiveness and resilience.
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