Mike Tomlin Reflects on Steelers Tenure: 'We Were Here for a Long and Really Good Time'

The former Steelers head coach spoke publicly for the first time since his departure, accepting a community impact award.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:38am

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In his first public comments since resigning as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers in January, Mike Tomlin reflected on his 19-year tenure with the franchise, saying "We were here for a long and really good time." Tomlin, who led the Steelers to a Super Bowl XLIII title and never had a losing season, accepted the Patricia R. Rooney Community Impact Award at the Ireland Funds Gala on Thursday.

Why it matters

Tomlin's departure from the Steelers after nearly two decades as head coach was a significant moment for the franchise and the NFL. His comments provide insight into his mindset and appreciation for his time in Pittsburgh, where he and his family were able to put down roots, a rarity in the nomadic world of professional coaching.

The details

Tomlin took over as Steelers head coach in 2007, making him the franchise's third head coach since the 1970 merger. During his tenure, he amassed a 201-116 overall record including the postseason. While the Steelers retained his rights after his decision to step down, it's still unclear what's next for Tomlin, with speculation he could pursue a media role or take a year away from coaching.

  • Tomlin stepped down as Steelers head coach in January 2026 following an AFC Wild Card round loss to the Houston Texans.
  • Tomlin accepted the Patricia R. Rooney Community Impact Award at the Ireland Funds Gala on March 13, 2026.

The players

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who led the team for 19 seasons and won a Super Bowl XLIII title.

Bill Cowher

The previous head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who Tomlin succeeded in 2007.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired after Tomlin's departure.

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What they’re saying

“It's often said, 'We're not here for a long time. We're here for a good time,' like you have to choose. I think our experience here in Pittsburgh with the great Steelers organization exemplifies that. We were here for a long and really good time.”

— Mike Tomlin, Former Steelers Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

It's still unclear what's next for Tomlin, with speculation he could pursue a media role or take a year away from coaching.

The takeaway

Tomlin's reflective comments on his nearly two decades leading the Steelers organization highlight the rarity of a coach and his family being able to put down roots in one community in the often nomadic world of professional sports. His tenure and success in Pittsburgh solidify his legacy as one of the franchise's most impactful figures.