Pittsburgh Steelers cite accountability lapses as Tomlin departs, hire Mike McCarthy

Former cornerback Joe Haden said the Steelers suffered from a lack of accountability during Mike Tomlin's 19‑year tenure, describing a “looseness” that led to errors and respect issues in the locker room. The criticism appears to have contributed to Tomlin’s decision to step down after a nine‑year playoff drought.

The franchise hired former Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy to lead the team starting in the 2026 season, hoping his disciplined approach will restore competitive standards and bring the Steelers back to the postseason.

The coaching change marks a major shift for the Pittsburgh organization, which aims to convert its talent pool into a playoff‑winning performance after a prolonged period without postseason victories.