Zach Banner Tells James Harrison to 'Shut Your Mouth' About Mike Tomlin

The former Steelers player defends the head coach amid criticism from another ex-player.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Zach Banner, a former Pittsburgh Steelers player, has strongly objected to comments made by ex-teammate James Harrison about head coach Mike Tomlin. Banner, who played with Ben Roethlisberger but not Harrison, took issue with Harrison's criticism of Tomlin's coaching abilities and record. Banner defended Tomlin, who was largely responsible for the success of both players' careers with the Steelers.

Why it matters

The ongoing debate between former Steelers players about Tomlin's tenure as head coach highlights the complex dynamics and differing perspectives within the organization. As a respected veteran, Harrison's criticism carries weight, but Banner's forceful response suggests there are still strong supporters of Tomlin within the Steelers community.

The details

Banner called out Harrison directly, telling him to "shut your mouth" about Tomlin. He referenced Harrison's own successful career under Tomlin, noting that the coach was "largely responsible" for making both their careers. Banner also suggested Harrison's opinions would be better suited for "spaces like the WWE, celebrity boxing matches" rather than serious football discussions.

  • In December 2025, Harrison said he never thought Tomlin was a 'great coach' and that 'something has to be done' about him.
  • Tomlin resigned as Steelers head coach at the end of the 2025 season, despite not being planned to be let go by the team.

The players

Zach Banner

A former Pittsburgh Steelers player who defended head coach Mike Tomlin against criticism from ex-teammate James Harrison.

James Harrison

A former Pittsburgh Steelers player who criticized Mike Tomlin's coaching abilities and record, suggesting the team should move on from him.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who resigned at the end of the 2025 season despite not being planned to be let go by the team.

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What they’re saying

“This right here is not only your perspective of me when you see me in person, my buff little friend, but what I think of your opinions at all when it comes to Mike Tomlin. You and your energy belong in spaces like the WWE, celebrity boxing matches. I could even see you being a little clay action figure on Celebrity Deathmatch. Maybe even South Park—I don't know. But my point is this: shut your mouth about Coach T.”

— Zach Banner, Former Pittsburgh Steelers Player (Twitter)

“I have never been a person that thought Coach Tomlin was a great coach. I thought he was a good coach. Something has to be done. I know the Steelers historically don't move on from coaches, but I think it's time that history be made.”

— James Harrison, Former Pittsburgh Steelers Player (steelersdepot.com)

What’s next

The Steelers organization has not indicated any plans to move on from Mike Tomlin, despite the criticism from some former players like James Harrison. It remains to be seen if the debate over Tomlin's coaching tenure will continue to play out publicly.

The takeaway

The ongoing dispute between former Steelers players over Mike Tomlin's legacy as head coach highlights the complex and often divisive nature of sports commentary, even among those who were once teammates. While reasonable people can disagree, the heated exchanges between Banner and Harrison underscore the need for more constructive dialogue around coaching tenures and team dynamics.