Steelers Legend Roethlisberger Endorses Mike McCarthy Hire

Former Packers and Cowboys coach returns to his hometown of Pittsburgh to take over as Steelers head coach.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Pittsburgh Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger has expressed his strong support for the team's hiring of Mike McCarthy as their new head coach. Roethlisberger, who played under Mike Tomlin for his entire 18-year career, is excited about the change to an offensive-minded coach like McCarthy, who previously led the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys.

Why it matters

The Steelers' decision to hire McCarthy represents a significant shift in philosophy after Mike Tomlin's long tenure focused on defense. Roethlisberger's endorsement of the hire helps ease concerns among Steelers fans about the transition to a new head coach with a different approach.

The details

McCarthy, who is originally from Pittsburgh, has a long track record of success as an NFL head coach, compiling a 174-112-2 regular season record and winning a Super Bowl with the Packers in 2010. He has also openly expressed interest in bringing back future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to the Steelers in 2026.

  • On January 28, 2026, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced the hiring of Mike McCarthy as their new head coach.

The players

Ben Roethlisberger

A Pittsburgh Steelers legend who played quarterback for the team for 18 seasons before retiring.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously served as head coach of the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who stepped down after the 2025 season.

Aaron Rodgers

A future Hall of Fame quarterback who played under Mike McCarthy with the Green Bay Packers, and whom McCarthy has expressed interest in bringing to the Steelers in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I know he's coached a lot of places but you're telling me that he doesn't have black and gold like in there. We finally have an offensive minded coach in here I'm so excited for an offensive minded coach.”

— Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers Legend (Roethlisberger's Podcast)

What’s next

The Steelers will look to finalize their coaching staff and begin preparations for the 2026 NFL season under new head coach Mike McCarthy.

The takeaway

Roethlisberger's endorsement of the McCarthy hire signals a new era for the Steelers, who are transitioning from a defensive-focused approach under Mike Tomlin to an offensive-minded philosophy under the experienced McCarthy. This change could breathe new life into the team and excite the fan base as they look to return to Super Bowl contention.