Steelers Interview Pittsburgh Native, Ex-Aaron Rodgers Head Coach
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a significant transition as they search for a new head coach in 2026. This comes after the departure of Mike Tomlin, who dedicated 19 years to the team, leading to a Super Bowl victory and an impressive 193-114-2 record. Tomlin’s tenure included 13 playoff appearances and eight AFC North Division titles.
Potential Candidates for Steelers Head Coach Position
The Steelers are evaluating a diverse range of candidates, focusing primarily on younger prospects. Among these candidates is Mike McCarthy, a Pittsburgh native with extensive coaching experience in the NFL.
Mike McCarthy: Coach Background
- Born in Pittsburgh, attended Saint Rosalia Academy and Bishop Boyle High School.
- Played college football at junior college and NAIA levels.
- Started coaching as a graduate assistant at Fort Hays State, a Division II school.
- Spent four seasons with the University of Pittsburgh (1989-1992) as a graduate assistant and wide receivers coach.
McCarthy has a notable 32-year career in the NFL, most recently coaching the Dallas Cowboys from 2020 to 2024. His Dallas tenure included remarkable seasons from 2021 to 2023, where he led the Cowboys to a record of 12-5 in each of those years, securing two NFC East Division titles. However, his time ended after a disappointing 7-10 finish in 2024, bringing his overall Cowboys record to 49-35.
Achievements with Green Bay Packers
Before his time in Dallas, McCarthy served as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers for 13 seasons (2006-2018). His accomplishments include:
- Nine playoff appearances
- Six NFC North Division titles, with four consecutive titles from 2011 to 2014
- Winning Super Bowl XLV against the Steelers in the 2010 season
During his tenure with the Packers, McCarthy worked closely with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who won NFL MVP twice under his guidance. Despite his success, McCarthy faced challenges in the postseason, leading to his eventual dismissal after a 4-7-1 start in 2018.
Coaching Philosophy and Experience
McCarthy’s coaching background is rooted in offensive strategies. His career includes roles as an offensive coordinator with the San Francisco 49ers and the New Orleans Saints. He also served as quarterbacks coach for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Packers.
As the Steelers consider potential candidates, McCarthy’s connection to Pittsburgh and his extensive experience could make him a prominent choice for the franchise’s future.
