Hampton native Mike Tomlin resigns as Steelers head coach

PITTSBURGH — Long-time Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is resigning from the post he has held for nearly two decades following a blowout playoff loss to the Texans Monday night, team team's owner announced Tuesday.

Tomlin, 53, was born in Hampton, grew up in Newport News, and graduated from Denbigh High School before attending college at William & Mary. He he was hired to lead the Steelers in 2007 and, until his resignation Tuesday, was the longest-tenured active coach in all of North American major professional sports.

The Denbigh product issued a statement shortly after news of his decision broke.

"This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team," Tomlin said. "I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also thankful to the players who gave everything they had every day, and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.

"I want to also thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty, and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike anywhere else, and I will always take great pride in having been a steward of this team."

Watch related: Tomlin talks with former WTKR anchor Barbara Ciara

In 19 seasons as coach of the Steelers, Tomlin brought home a Super Bowl championship, and never led the team to a losing season. He guided the franchise to 13 postseason appearances and eight AFC North Division titles.

After eking their way into the playoffs with the Baltimore Ravens' last-second field goal miss in week 18, the Steelers hosted the Houston Texans in the final game of the NFL playoff Wild Card weekend.

The Texans dropped 23 points on the Steelers in the fourth quarter to win, 30-6. It marked Pittsburgh's seventh consecutive playoff game defeat.

After 2 p.m., the Steelers account on X posted a statement about Tomlin.

ESPN is reporting that Tomlin will not coach anywhere in 2026. The Steelers are now one of three AFC North Division teams with a head coaching vacancy. Only the Bengals enter the offseason without the need for coaching search.