Super Bowl-winning coach Mike McCarthy is making waves in this season”s coaching carousel, having interviewed for several positions including the one with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Following discussions with the team, he is now regarded as a “strong candidate” for the head coaching role.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter shared insights on McCarthy”s potential fit with the Steelers during a segment on “Get Up”. He noted that while McCarthy does not fit the typical mold of a Pittsburgh head coach, his background aligns with the franchise”s current needs. “The Pittsburgh Steelers have a history of hiring younger, defensive-minded coaches,” Schefter explained. “Yesterday, they interviewed an experienced, offensive-minded head coach. McCarthy, who hails from Pittsburgh, has a strong desire to return and coach the Steelers. Although he may not fit the recent profiles of their head coaches, he possesses valuable qualities that could benefit the organization.”
A Pittsburgh native, McCarthy has been involved in coaching since 1987. He began his head coaching career in 2006 with the Green Bay Packers, where he led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2010. After departing the Packers following the 2018 season, he took the reins of the Dallas Cowboys from 2020 until 2024. Over his career, McCarthy has compiled an overall record of 174 wins, 112 losses, and 2 ties, along with an 11-11 playoff record.
“He is in consideration for the head coaching position. I”m not claiming he will be hired,” Schefter stated. “But he is certainly a strong candidate.” One reason Schefter believes McCarthy could be a suitable choice is due to the current quarterback situation in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are not positioned to secure their franchise quarterback this offseason, yet McCarthy has previously coached their current quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, in Green Bay. This connection may influence the decision-making process regarding the quarterback situation.
“You have to consider that the Steelers are currently in a state of quarterback uncertainty,” Schefter remarked. “They are in a division with Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow, and this year, they do not hold a high draft pick. The options for free agent quarterbacks are limited, and trading for one may not be feasible. So, if they hire Mike McCarthy, perhaps they would be open to bringing back Aaron Rodgers, which could increase the chances of a reunion between Rodgers and McCarthy.”
The future of Aaron Rodgers remains uncertain. Given his age, even if he returns, he may not serve as a long-term solution at quarterback for the Steelers. However, hiring McCarthy could provide the team with the necessary time to plan their future direction.
