# Mike Tomlin coaching future and NFL involvement

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mike-tomlin-coaching-future-and-nfl-involvement
> Updated: 2026-09-08T02:45:24.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 3.

Following his resignation from the Pittsburgh Steelers, former head coach Mike Tomlin has been linked to the New York Jets coaching search. Reports indicate that Jets owner Woody Johnson is investigating Tomlin’s potential return to coaching, with the team considered a front-runner to secure him.

Tomlin has since transitioned into a broadcasting role with NBC’s ‘Football Night in America’. While discussing his future on ‘The Rich Eisen Show’, he stated he prefers to “leave certain doors ajar” regarding his long-term professional plans. Because Tomlin resigned rather than being fired, the Steelers retain his contract rights through the 2027 season, meaning any interested team would likely need to negotiate a trade, despite Tomlin reportedly possessing a no-trade clause.

During a recent appearance on the PFF NFL Show, Tomlin reiterated that he is not ruling out a return to coaching, though he noted it is “not a 32-team league” for him. He expressed a continued passion for the profession and the development of young athletes, specifically identifying Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen as the player he would “most love to coach,” noting that Allen appears “built for it” and excels in critical moments.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-08: Mike Tomlin discusses potential coaching return and Josh Allen

Former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says he is not ruling out an NFL coaching return and identified Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen as his top choice to coach.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mike-tomlin-names-josh-allen-as-the-quarterback-he-would-most-like-to-coach

### 2026-09-04: Mike Tomlin discusses coaching future and John Harbaugh

Former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, now a broadcaster, has left the door open for a potential NFL coaching return while expressing confidence in John Harbaugh's ability to lead the New York Giants.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mike-tomlin-discusses-coaching-future-and-john-harbaugh

### 2026-08-25: Mike Tomlin linked to New York Jets coaching search

Former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is a primary target for the New York Jets, while Geno Smith eyes a historic NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mike-tomlin-linked-to-new-york-jets-coaching-search

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Cite as: Mike Tomlin coaching future and NFL involvement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mike-tomlin-coaching-future-and-nfl-involvement