Mike Tomlin’s Steelers Eye Playoff Upset Amid Health and Momentum
Pittsburgh, January 6, 2026 – Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has guided his team to an AFC North championship and a wild-card playoff berth, but speculation swirls about his future as the squad prepares to host the Houston Texans on Monday, January 12, at 8:15 PM ET. With a mostly healthy roster and recent momentum, Tomlin emphasized focusing on the postseason ahead, despite pundit predictions of potential changes.
Steelers’ Playoff Path and Recent Momentum
The Steelers clinched their playoff spot with a thrilling 26-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night, January 5, securing the AFC North title for the first time since 2020. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers delivered a clutch performance, completing 31-of-47 passes for 294 yards and a touchdown, while also scrambling for 20 yards. Tomlin praised the team’s resilience, stating, “We’re AFC North champions. That sounds good, and it feels good. But we didn’t come here for that. We’re here for what lies ahead.”
Entering the playoffs as the No. 4 seed, the Steelers face long odds to advance, with DraftKings Sportsbook listing them at +1700 to win the AFC and +4500 for the Super Bowl. However, Tomlin’s playoff experience, including a Super Bowl win in 2009, and the team’s 4-1 finish to the regular season provide optimism. The Texans, led by edge rushers Danielle Hunter (15 sacks) and Will Anderson Jr. (12 sacks), present a formidable challenge, but limiting their pass rush will be key for Pittsburgh’s offense.
Key Facts and Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 2025 Regular Season Record | 10-7 (AFC North Champions) |
| Playoff Odds (DraftKings) | +1700 to win AFC; +4500 for Super Bowl |
| Key Players’ Stats | Aaron Rodgers: 294 passing yards vs. Ravens; T.J. Watt: Interception return; Jaylen Warren: Immense offensive contributions |
| Tomlin’s Tenure | 17 seasons as Steelers coach; 1 Super Bowl win (XLIII) |
| Upcoming Game | vs. Houston Texans, Monday, January 12, 2026, 8:15 PM ET at Acrisure Stadium |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Mike Tomlin leave the Steelers after the playoffs?
Speculation has grown in NFL circles about Tomlin potentially departing for a non-coaching role, but Steelers president Art Rooney II has denied any imminent changes, and local reports indicate Tomlin is expected to return in 2026. Pundit Ryan Clark predicted Tomlin could coach the New York Giants to the playoffs, but this remains unconfirmed rumor.
How healthy are the Steelers entering the playoffs?
Tomlin reported the team is “relatively healthy” with no major injuries, including a full return for T.J. Watt after a partially collapsed lung. The roster features key contributors like tight end Pat Freiermuth, who praised Tomlin’s leadership, calling him “the best coach I’ve ever played for.”
What is Tomlin’s coaching philosophy?
Tomlin emphasizes running the ball effectively, winning the turnover battle, and avoiding mistakes. Critics argue this conservative approach may limit aggression in the playoffs, but it has historically succeeded against average opponents, as seen in the Ravens’ 8-9 finish.