Mike Tomlin Comments on Redskins Rumors at Weekly Press Conference
By Kevin Aquino
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has been linked to the Redskins' coaching position after the team fired Jay Gruden. Given that Tomlin is currently employed in Pittsburgh, we wouldn't expect him to be publicly vying for the Washington job.
And for Steelers fans worrying about the prospect of losing their long-tenured head coach, his latest comments should quell those fears. When asked about the vacant Redskins coaching gig, Tomlin made clear that he's not thinking about the role. Instead, he's focusing on his 1-4 Steelers and their upcoming clash with the Chargers.
Tomlin on Washington Redskins job:
— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) October 8, 2019
“I’m not worried about that. … I’m the head coach of a 1-4 football team that’s going on the road to play a Hall of Fame caliber quarterback. You think I’m worried about anything more than that?"
Tomlin didn't exactly shut the idea down of a future move to the nation's capital completely, meaning the door could still be open if the Redskins continue their pursuit at the end of the season. The 47-year-old played it safe, like we all thought he would.
Although he may be frustrated with Pittsburgh's struggles, it isn't all that surprising given the team's position. Nobody is expecting the Steelers to do much of anything this year while Ben Roethlisberger is sidelined.
In a recent conversation with someone who knows Dan Snyder well and is aware of his thoughts on potential next #Redskins head coaches that any list of candidates would include: #Steelers HC Mike Tomlin, #Bucs DC Todd Bowles, #Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy.
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) October 7, 2019
The Redskins will keep knocking on Tomlin's door, and while his neutral response doesn't necessarily suggest there's interest on his end, he certainly didn't slam the door shut on the idea of taking over in Washington.