Ben Roethlisberger holds iconic status with the Pittsburgh Steelers after his illustrious career. So when he speaks, fans listen. Now, the 18-season veteran has weighed in on the growing calls from frustrated fans for head coach Mike Tomlin to be replaced.
It comes after a dismal showing on Sunday, when the Steelers fell 26-7 to Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium.
That defeat marked Pittsburgh‘s fifth loss in their last seven games, and some fans responded by chanting “Fire Tomlin” during the contest.
Former Steelers linebacker James Harrison has publicly expressed that a coaching change may be overdue, while Stephen A. Smith came down heavily on the coach.
Roethlisberger signals dignified end for Tomlin
Roethlisberger has joined the conversation, offering his perspective on what he believes could be the best path forward for both the coach and the team.
Speaking on the latest episode of his Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger podcast, the two-time Super Bowl champion suggested that a fresh start might be the ideal solution, but stopped short of saying he should be fired.
“Maybe it’s a clean-house time. Maybe it’s time. I like Coach Tomlin. I have a lot of respect for Coach Tomlin, but maybe it’s best for him, too,” Roethlisberger said.
He continued, proposing an alternative route for Tomlin outside the NFL: “Maybe a fresh start for him is what’s best. Whether that’s in the pros, maybe go be Penn State‘s head coach.
“You know what he would do in Penn State? He would probably go win national championships, because he’s a great recruiter.”
Roethlisberger emphasized the need to handle the situation respectfully, rather than firing Tomlin outright.
“Here’s what you don’t do: You don’t fire a guy like Coach Tomlin. He’s a Hall of Fame head coach, he’s respected.
“What you do is you come to an understanding and agreement, and it’s like, ‘Hey, listen, I think it’s probably best for both of us. You go, ‘Hey, Coach, listen, it’s probably best for all parties involved, let’s start over.’ It happened with Chuck Noll, it happened with Coach Cowher.”
Tomin’s legacy and what lies ahead
Since taking over in 2007, Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season in his tenure with the Steelers. His 18-year stint makes him the longest-tenured head coach in the NFL today.
Despite this consistency, the team has struggled in the postseason, failing to win a playoff game since 2016 and they haven’t won the Super Bowl since their triumph 15 years ago.
The pressure is now on Tomlin to turn the season around and guide the Steelers to an AFC North division crown. Their upcoming matchup against the Baltimore Ravens carries enormous weight, as the winner takes first place in the division.
Any success this season could silence critics and secure his legacy as one of the league’s most respected coaches. For fans and former players like Roethlisberger, it may also provide a chance for a dignified conclusion if a change becomes necessary.
But as the Steelers navigate this critical stretch, the spotlight will be on both the performance of the team and Tomlin‘s ability to inspire and lead.
The coming weeks will determine whether Pittsburgh can overcome its current slump or if it’s time for a new chapter in the franchise’s storied history.
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