Steelers reach verbal agreement with Mike McCarthy to become next head coach, AP reports
Pittsburgh has a verbal agreement with veteran coach Mike McCarthy, a hometown return that marks a major shift for a franchise known for coaching continuity.
A rare coaching change in Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Steelers have reached a verbal agreement with Mike McCarthy to become their next head coach, according to an Associated Press report published January 25, 2026. The move follows the departure of Mike Tomlin and represents a significant moment for a franchise that has historically prioritized long-term stability, with only a handful of coaching changes across decades.
McCarthy is a Pittsburgh native, and the AP described the decision as a homecoming. The hire also signals that ownership is leaning toward an experienced, offense-focused head coach as the team tries to break a prolonged stretch without a postseason win.
McCarthy’s résumé and what he inherits
The AP report notes McCarthy’s overall coaching record (including playoffs) and highlights his Super Bowl title with Green Bay, along with recent seasons leading Dallas. That history is central to why Pittsburgh appears to be betting on him: he is a proven head coach with a track record of guiding high-level offenses and working with elite quarterbacks.
The Steelers’ situation, however, is defined by uncertainty at quarterback and frustration over recent playoff exits. The AP story points to the team’s difficulty finding a long-term answer at the position and the practical constraints of drafting late in the first round year after year.
Quarterback questions and roster-building
One of the biggest near-term questions is how the coaching change could affect the Steelers’ quarterback plans, including the possibility that veteran Aaron Rodgers could be influenced by the chance to reunite with McCarthy. The AP also discussed Pittsburgh’s likely focus on roster needs such as wide receiver and cornerback as it approaches the draft.
Team president Art Rooney II downplayed the notion of a rebuild, the report said, emphasizing competitiveness from the start. That stance suggests Pittsburgh expects quick progress under McCarthy rather than a multi-year teardown.
What happens next
- Contract finalization and staff hires under McCarthy.
- Clarity on Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback plan for the 2026 season.
- Draft and free-agency moves aimed at ending the postseason win drought.