A Mike Tomlin trade is possible, but it’s not likely

Pittsburgh: The Steelers just wrapped up another season, and the talk is already buzzing. They lost in the playoffs again, and now everyone’s wondering about Mike Tomlin’s future.

So, here’s the scoop: the Steelers say they’re “not planning” to make a coaching change. But you know how it goes—plans can shift in a heartbeat.

What could shake things up? Well, if another team comes in with an offer that’s too good to pass up, that might do the trick. Everyone thinks Tomlin would land another head coaching gig in no time if he wanted to, so why not trade him for some solid value?

But here’s the catch: coaches aren’t traded like players. It’s a whole different ball game. If a team wants Tomlin, they have to call the Steelers and negotiate. If both sides agree, then they can talk to Tomlin about a deal. If not, no trade happens.

Usually, teams will check in quietly to see if the coach is interested before making any moves. If Tomlin’s camp says, “No thanks,” that’s the end of that.

Now, why would Tomlin even consider a trade? He could just say no, which might force the Steelers to rethink their plans. If they did fire him, he’d be free to jump into another job without any strings attached. Or he could take a year off with pay and have his pick of jobs in 2026.

If the Steelers were dead set against a coaching change, it would feel different. But saying they’re “not planning” could be a little nudge to teams like the Jets, Bears, or even the Cowboys, whose coach’s contract is up soon.