The Pittsburgh Steelers season is over, and it is time to put a bow on the 2023-2024 season with Mike Tomlin’s end-of-season press conference. As Tomlin met with the media it is important to note this is the last time fans and media will get a chance to talk prior to the NFL Draft. While most coaches and General Managers speak at the NFL Scouting Combine, Tomlin is not one of them. With that said, there were a lot of questions surrounding the team which weren’t necessarily about the most recent team/season.

Before the media were able to pepper Tomlin with questions, he addressed him walking out of the post-game press conference Monday when asked a question about his contract and a potential extension. Tomlin said he felt there was a “time and place” for a question like that, and didn’t feel after the game was that time, or that place.

Tomlin went on to say the team is going through exit interviews with team and staff. One of the big things which will be addressed throughout the exit interviews were injuries. Tomlin said there was “nothing major” ailing anyone on the team, yet there would be some minor procedures to clean up certain things this offseason. Tomlin did add how T.J. Watt’s rehabilitation is going well, and even said he could have played this week if the team had advanced to the Divisional Round. On top of those injuries, Tomlin added Joey Porter Jr. and Allen Robinson are still in the NFL’s concussion protocol.

Tomlin then turned his attention to the coaching staff, and changes which are about to ensue. He admitted coaching “never stay the same” and how the organization is at the infancy of the process for building the 2024 staff, especially with the offensive coordinator role.

The media were then permitted to as questions, and the first questions lobbed at Tomlin were about the vacant offensive coordinator position on his coaching staff. Tomlin was very open about several aspects of the job, and admitted that current coordinator and play caller Eddie Faulker and Mike Sullivan are not in consideration for the vacancy at this time. Tomlin added they are looking at outside candidates based on the fact he, “Feels it’s appropriate”

As it pertains to the new coordinator role, Tomlin stated he, Art Rooney II and Omar Khan will be the ones who make the final decision on the position, but did add they are looking for the following from whoever they choose: “Be versatile and dynamic. Score more points. Keep defenses off balance and utilize the talent on the roster.” Tomlin did add he is looking for someone with prior coordinator experience in their search.

The questions then became aimed at the quarterback position, and how the new coordinator will be able to get the best out of Kenny Pickett. Tomlin said, “Their expertise in that area is a significant part of the search”

As it pertains to Pickett, Tomlin said he will resume QB1 status heading into the offseason, but there will be competition. “Don’t anoint anyone” Tomlin said, and stated Pickett will be challenged moving forward. Just because there will be a competition doesn’t mean he isn’t still extremely confident in Pickett’s potential. “Highly competitive and professional.” said Tomlin when describing the 2023 season for the team’s 2022 1st Round draft pick. “It’s a big year for him. Huge year for him, but excited to watch him attack it.”

With Mason Rudolph, Tomlin didn’t hold back the praise for the 2018 draft pick. He said it is the hope of the franchise for him to be back, but admitted he’s a free agent. He was asked if Rudolph’s play in 2024 changed his perception of him, and Tomlin said it absolutely did. “Cannot underscore how impressive it is to be ready. To deliver.” Tomlin said. “Less speculative about his capabilities, and evidence in tough circumstances.” Throughout the press conference he continually added how Rudolph will be a target this offseason to return to the team.

Many might be wondering about any potential changes to the defensive coaching staff, but Tomlin said anything at this juncture would be speculatory, but did admit things change on a yearly basis.

Tomlin was then asked about the rookie class, and his thoughts on them after their first season. “Got quality production from them. In many instances they didn’t wilt.” Tomlin said. “We were thoughtful about participation, so they could be available down the stretch… We are extremely excited about the group.”

As for specific rookies, Tomlin was asked if Broderick Jones would remain at right tackle, or flip him to left tackle. Tomlin said they are undecided as to his position next season.

With Joey Porter Jr. Tomlin spoke glowingly about the team’s 2nd Round pick last year. “Excited about the trajectory of his career. Most impressive is his mindset. He wants to fight. He wants the tough coverage.”

This offseason the Steelers will need to make a difficult decision on Najee Harris’s 5th year option. The way Tomlin spoke made it seem as if it was a done deal Harris will be back for a 5th season. Tomlin cited Harris has “Been what we needed him to be.” and “Speaks to his consistency and availability.” Harris put up a 3rd straight 1,000 yard season, something which is very rare in NFL history.

Questions came about the Steelers inside linebackers, Tomlin admitted the organization has some decisions to make at the position. Cole Holcomb is still on the road to recovery, and Kwon Alexander becomes a free agent this offseason. Tomlin did say players like Myles Jack and Eric Rowe would remain options for the team this offseason.

When asked about the punting situation, Tomlin open stated Pressley Harvin III was “Not consistent enough down the stretch.” and that might have been the understatement of the entire press conference.

More global questions about Tomlin’s desire to get certain players a championship, he was asked about Cam Heyward. Tomlin said Cam is “Deserving to be a champion.” and how he “Wants them to get that taste.” Tomlin continued to talk about how some players he has coached still stick with him as not being able to get that championship ring. The one he cited during the press conference was Maurkice Pouncey. “One of my biggest regrets was Maurkice Pouncey wasn’t a champion, because that guy is.”

As for Tomlin’s future/extension, he said he expects to be back, acknowledging the “contract things will run its course.” Media brought up how his contract extensions usually happen at Saint Vincent College during training camp, but he admitted getting a deal done before hiring an offensive coordinator will be important. “It [an extension] will get done in a timely manner, at the appropriate time.”

Finally, Tomlin was asked about his goals of the organization, and his answer was simple: “To be world champions” which he admitted 31 of 32 teams fall short of every year.

A lot of information was discussed and disseminated throughout the press conference, and it all points to a very tumultuous, and newsworthy, offseason with coaching changes and players acquired and cut as the new league year begins in March.

Be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they continue to press on throughout what could be a very busy offseason.