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The Pittsburgh Steelers gave Mike Tomlin a three-year extension on Monday, keeping their head coach under contract through the 2027 season. Beyond additional job security, the head coach is mostly happy to silence talks about his future.
Tomlin hoped he wouldn’t have to answer any more inquiries about his contract when addressing one on Tuesday.
“To be quite honest with you, it just means I don’t have to field questions about it,” Tomlin told reporters (h/t On3). “I’ve seen more days than I am going to see on this job, man. I’m focused on 2024 and have been, and that’s my mindset.”
Bill Belichick’s ousting made Tomlin the NFL’s longest-tenured head coach with his current team. The Steelers haven’t finished a season with a losing record since he replaced Bill Cowher in 2007.
Last year, Pittsburgh made the playoffs despite ranking 28th in total offense and 25th in total defense. However, Tomlin isn’t savoring his past achievements.
The 52-year-old claimed he could not “care less about my resume.” He also answered with a simple headshake and “No” when a reporter asked if he had any measure for when he’d stop coaching.
While Tomlin has consistently kept the Steelers competitive, they haven’t advanced past the postseason’s opening round in six years. The coach pointed to loftier aspirations in a team statement released on Monday.
“I am appreciative for this contract extension and thankful for Art Rooney II for his support during my first 17 years in Pittsburgh,” Tomlin said. “We are continuing to work diligently to get back to where we belong – sustained playoff success with the ultimate goal of winning the franchise’s seventh Lombardi Trophy.
Related: Steelers Make Decision On Mike Tomlin’s Contract Before Season