Steelers Players Express Gratitude to Mike Tomlin in Zoom Call
Mike Tomlin’s departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers after the 2025 season prompted an outpouring of gratitude from players past and present. A recent Zoom call, attended by over 70 individuals, served as a platform for players to personally thank the long-time head coach for his impact on their careers and the Steelers organization.
A Coach Who Connected with Players
Former Steelers wide receiver Nate Washington revealed the extent of Tomlin’s influence during a February 17th appearance on the Bullseye View podcast. Washington described a Zoom call organized to express thanks to Tomlin, stating, “We literally just had a Zoom call with Mike T. With over 70 people… just to say thank you to Mike T, all individually.” The call lasted nearly two hours, a testament to the numerous lives Tomlin touched during his tenure.
Washington emphasized the culture Tomlin fostered, noting his ability to connect with players on a personal level. “That’s what type of, not only culture, the Steelers have, but the man Mike T. Was. He touched a lot of lives. Not just young guys, but older guys as well. He’s a very inspirational person. Very motivational.” He recalled Tomlin’s habit of approaching players before games with words of encouragement, such as “Hey, let’s get it today,” which significantly boosted his confidence.
A Contrast in Coaching Styles
Washington drew a distinction between Tomlin’s approach and that of former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher. He explained that under Cowher, interaction was limited to a select few players. “When Coach Cowher was there — it was really only like three, four guys who spoke to Coach Cowher,” Washington said. “You don’t just run up to Coach Cowher and start talking to him, having a conversation with him.”
In contrast, Tomlin was described as approachable and engaged, walking around during practice, interacting with players at each station and fostering a sense of closeness. “Having Coach Tomlin come in, and he’s walking around station to station, drill to drill, twirling his whistle, walking up to you like, ‘What’s going on,’” Washington explained.
Tomlin’s Legacy with the Steelers
Mike Tomlin stepped down as the Steelers’ head coach following the 2025 season after a 19-year tenure. Throughout his time with the team, he maintained a remarkable record of avoiding losing seasons, spanning from 2007 to 2025. He led the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in 2009 (Super Bowl XLIII) and another appearance in 2011 (Super Bowl XLV).
Tomlin concluded his Steelers career with a record of 193-114-2, securing 13 AFC North Division titles. The Steelers finished the 2025 season with a 10-7 record, winning the AFC North but losing to the Houston Texans in the AFC Wild Card round. Mike McCarthy has since taken over as the Steelers’ head coach.
Source: Behind the Steel Curtain
Source: Steelers Depot
Source: Yahoo Sports
Source: Sports Illustrated