Mike Tomlin, known for his regular-season consistency, finds himself under increasing scrutiny as the Pittsburgh Steelers continue their postseason drought. Meanwhile, wide receiver George Pickens has openly expressed frustration with the team’s stagnant offense after a disappointing Wild Card loss to the Ravens. As Pittsburgh enters a pivotal offseason, the questions surrounding its future grow louder.
Mike Tomlin’s postseason record: Consistency but limited success
Since being hired in 2007, Mike Tomlin has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s most consistent head coaches. His streak of 18 consecutive seasons without a losing record is unmatched, and his career regular-season record of 183-107-2 cements him among the league’s elite. However, his playoff record tells a different story: just 8-11 in the postseason.
Tomlin’s early success, including a Super Bowl win in 2009, raised expectations for a franchise accustomed to playoff dominance. But the Steelers haven’t returned to the Super Bowl since 2011, and their last playoff victory came in 2016. This year’s 28-14 Wild Card defeat against the Ravens marked yet another chapter in Pittsburgh’s postseason struggles.
Critics argue that Tomlin failed to capitalize on the talent-rich rosters of the 2010s, featuring stars like Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown, and Le’Veon Bell. While his ability to keep the Steelers competitive is undeniable, the lack of recent postseason success is starting to overshadow his regular-season achievements.
George Pickens calls out Pittsburgh’s offensive stagnation
One of the key storylines following the Steelers’ Wild Card exit was George Pickens’ blunt critique of the team’s offense. When asked if he believed in the unit’s potential, Pickens offered a simple yet telling answer: “Nah.”
Pickens’ frustration isn’t surprising. After a promising start to the season, Pittsburgh’s offense collapsed down the stretch, averaging just 14. 2 points per game in their final five contests, a significant drop from the 29.8 points they averaged earlier. Against the Ravens, the Steelers managed only 29 rushing yards, while Baltimore dominated with a record-setting 299 rushing yards. Despite Pickens’ spectacular 36-yard touchdown in the third quarter, Pittsburgh’s offense struggled to find rhythm.
Pickens himself endured a difficult 2024 season. He concluded the year with 59 receptions, 900 yards, and three touchdowns—well below expectations. A hamstring injury sidelined him for three games in December, and his performances upon return were inconsistent. Adding to his challenges, Pickens was fined $22,511 by the NFL for a facemask penalty in a Week 18 loss to the Bengals.
These frustrations have raised questions about his future with the team. While some speculate that his attitude could lead to an eventual departure, others believe his talent is too valuable for the Steelers to let go. If Pittsburgh chooses to move on, they’ll need a clear plan to replace one of their few offensive playmakers.
What’s next for the Steelers?
The Steelers face a critical offseason as they attempt to address both their offensive shortcomings and postseason struggles. With AFC powerhouses like the Ravens, Chiefs, and Bengals continuing to dominate, Pittsburgh risks falling further behind unless significant changes are made.
One area of focus will undoubtedly be the offensive scheme. Critics have pointed to predictable play-calling and a lack of explosiveness as major weaknesses. Additionally, the Steelers must decide whether George Pickens remains a cornerstone of their future or if his inconsistency and frustrations outweigh his potential.
For Mike Tomlin, the stakes have never been higher. While his regular-season record is unparalleled, his legacy will ultimately be defined by postseason success—or the lack thereof. A failure to adapt and evolve could place even his storied tenure under scrutiny.
The path forward
As the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency approach, the Steelers must act decisively. An infusion of young talent, a revamped offensive philosophy, and a renewed focus on maximizing their strengths will be critical for the franchise to reclaim its place among the NFL’s elite. The Steelers’ storied history demands bold action, and their loyal fanbase will accept nothing less.
With key decisions looming, Pittsburgh has an opportunity to reshape its future. Will they rise to the challenge and return to relevance in the highly competitive AFC, or will another season of missed opportunities define their legacy?
Fans, analysts, and even players like George Pickens are eager to see whether the Steelers can reignite their offensive spark and return to playoff prominence. The pressure is on, and the clock is ticking.
