Story perspectives

Steelers Target New Head Coach Amid Tomlin's Departure

1/15/2026

Summary

Steelers Seek Coach

The Steelers are seeking a new head coach after Mike Tomlin's resignation.
They have requested interviews with several candidates, focusing on defensive coordinators.
Jeff Hafley, the Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, is a notable candidate.
The Steelers have also reached out to Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator, and Brian Flores, defensive coordinator, and aim to hire by the end of January 2026.

Summary

Cardinals Fire Coach

The Arizona Cardinals fired head coach Jonathan Gannon after three seasons and a 15-36 record.
They are interviewing candidates, including Mike LaFleur, the Rams' offensive coordinator, and Jeff Hafley, the Packers' defensive coordinator.
Other candidates include Raheem Morris, former Falcons head coach, and Vance Joseph, the Broncos' defensive coordinator.
The team aims to hire quickly after ending the season with a nine-game losing streak.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's coaching landscape has evolved significantly since the implementation of the Rooney Rule in 2003, aimed at increasing diversity among head coaches. In 2018, teams increasingly favored offensive-minded leaders, resulting in eight head coach firings. This trend reflects the league's pressure for immediate results, as seen in the Arizona Cardinals' Jonathan Gannon, who holds a 15-36 record, and the Steelers' search for a new head coach after Mike Tomlin's resignation.

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Steelers Seek Coach

The Steelers are seeking a new head coach after Mike Tomlin's resignation.
They have requested interviews with several candidates, focusing on defensive coordinators.
Jeff Hafley, the Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, is a notable candidate.
The Steelers have also reached out to Ejiro Evero, defensive coordinator, and Brian Flores, defensive coordinator, and aim to hire by the end of January 2026.

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