Part 7/17:
The aftermath was seismic. Following the season, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin announced his decision to step down after 19 seasons—an unprecedented move, given Tomlin's impeccable record of only one losing season in nearly two decades. The decision shocked many, especially as Tomlin had been a cornerstone of stability and success in Pittsburgh.
Tomlin’s departure was signaled well in advance, rooted in the team’s repeated playoff shortcomings. Importantly, Rogers had publicly expressed support for Tomlin, praising his success and leadership despite internal frustrations with his previous coaching situation in Green Bay. Rogers’s comments underscored a complex respect and nostalgia for past glories, notably the Super Bowl win under McCarthy—a partnership now etched into NFL history.