Mike Tomlin breaks silence on his future with the Steelers following infamous press conference walkout

Mike Tomlin finished his 17th season as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday.

Mike Tomlin breaks silence on his future with the Steelers following infamous press conference walkout

Mike Tomlin (Via Imago)

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin led his team to yet another non-losing season this year, his 17th straight season of doing so. He led the Steelers to a Wild Card spot this season, but failed to win the game against the Buffalo Bills. After the game, speculations were made about the head coach’s future with the team. He was even asked about it in the post-game press conference and his response was legendary.

Tomlin walked out of the press conference as soon as heard the question regarding his contract extension. That became a viral moment as it led to more speculations about his future with the Steelers. The former Super Bowl-winning head coach was in a more receptive mood on Thursday as he opened his press conference by joking about his contract. He also broke his silence over his future with the Steelers.

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Tomlin said:

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Yes, I expect to be back. I’d imagine those contract things are gonna run their course. Art and I have a really good, transparent relationship. We communicate continually, often. I don’t Imagine it’s gonna be an issue and I imagine it’s gonna get done in a timely manner at the appropriate time.
Mike Tomlin at the press conference

Tomlin holds the record for most consecutive seasons with a non-losing record after a 10-7 campaign this year. If the contract negotiations go well, he should be approaching his 20th year of employment in Pittsburgh.

Mike Tomlin believes that Kenny Pickett will be challenged for the number-one position

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting QB Kenny Pickett had a rough season. He lost his starting job after suffering an ankle injury and ended the season on the sidelines. According to head coach, Mike Tomlin, Pickett will face competition for his number-one position heading into next season.

Mike Tomlin (L) and Kenny Pickett (R)
Mike Tomlin (L – via NFL.com) and Kenny Pickett (R – via NBC Sports)

Tomlin clarified that Pickett will be viewed as the starter, but will have to earn his place in the team. Tomlin said:

He [Pickett] will, but there will be competition. There's obviously always competition in this thing. We don't anoint anyone. Man, I'm appreciative of his efforts and where he is, and excited about continuing to work with him.
Mike Tomlin said

Pickett finished the season with 2,070 yards, 6 touchdowns and 4 interceptions while playing in only 12 games. He suffered an ankle injury in week 13 and was ruled out for an unknown amount of time. He was activated for the Steelers’ final game, but was demoted to backup duties with Mason Rudolph starting as the team’s QB.

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