Mike Tomlin rumored to be a "top" candidate for AFC head coaching job

Mike Tomlin shocked the NFL world by stepping down from his role as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

Tomlin had been the head man in Pittsburgh since 2007, won a Super Bowl, and never had a losing record with the team. However, the team failed to advance in the postseason again this season, and it seems like it's time for a change. 

There has been some speculation that Tomlin could take a year off, similar to what Mike Vrabel did after splitting with the Titans. However, what if the perfect job is available that Tomlin can't say no to? 

NFL insider reports Tomlin could be a fit for Dolphins 

NFL insider Josina Anderson is reporting that Tomlin is a "top" candidate for the Miami Dolphins job. The Dolphins fired Mike McDaniel and could be looking for a more experienced option with their next hire. 

“‘John Harbaugh & Mike Tomlin are at the top of the (Miami Dolphins) wish list (at head coach),’ a league source said again just now. We’ll see…if the Dolphins can pull either off,” said Anderson. “It takes two to tango." 

Anderson was also reportedly told by a source that Tomlin "would prefer to coach in a warm-weather environment, if it fits." 

As Anderson mentioned, the Dolphins could be going hard after both Tomlin and John Harbaugh. Both coaches are experienced winners from the AFC North who are somewhat surprisingly available. 

The Dolphins certainly need a fresh start. The team has not won a playoff game since the year 2000. The Dolphins made the playoffs in 2022 and 2023, but failed to get back to the postseason in 2024 or 2025. 

Tomlin would immediately bring credibility to the Dolphins and would likely make some veterans want to play there. 

Of course, there's no guarantee Tomlin would want to start over in Miami. Sure, the weather is nice, but the Dolphins are in a terrible cap situation and are seemingly stuck with Tua Tagovailoa at quarterback. 

Would Tomlin prefer to just sit this season out and see what options are available next season? Regardless, it seems like the Dolphins are exploring all options and could be a major player in the market. 

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• Pete Carroll could be replaced by elite college coach