Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Is Gambling With His Future And Arthur Smith’s In 2024: 'There’s A Mike Tomlin Issue'

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a bold move this offseason by not only acquiring one, but three quarterbacks. It all began with the signing of Russell Wilson to a one-year veteran minimum deal. Following that, they orchestrated a trade for Justin Fields and also added Kyle Allen to their roster. This decision was a surprising departure from retaining any of the quarterbacks from the 2023 season, signaling a complete reset at the quarterback position.

While Steelers fans are elated at the prospect of having a nine-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion like Wilson as their starter, they also find solace in knowing that Fields serves as a capable backup should Wilson encounter difficulties. Yet, there lingers the looming question: What if the Steelers' new quarterback strategy fails to deliver?

During a segment on The Fan Morning Show on Tuesday, a prominent media personality from 93.7 The Fan offered a sobering insight for Steelers fans. Should Fields and Wilson fail to meet expectations, and if the team struggles in the 2024 season, the consequences could be dire.

“You’re talking about a way bigger story than what we are actually talking about if that’s the case. If both of these quarterbacks flame out, there’s a bigger issue on the table.”

Should the Steelers' two quarterbacks fail to find success in their inaugural year in Pittsburgh, the lingering issues from the 2023 season will undoubtedly persist, amplifying the clamor within the city. What was once a sense of contentment among many Steelers fans with the organization could swiftly transform into a fervent desire to oust Mike Tomlin and seek a fresh start by parting ways with Arthur Smith.

“There’s an Arthur Smith issue. There’s a Mike Tomlin issue. There’s an organizational issue. I mean you could go all the way back to Kenny Pickett, like was he the problem? If that were the case. Oh, huge issue.”

Another significant topic that would undoubtedly come under scrutiny is the handling of Kenny Pickett. The Steelers' decision to part ways with Pickett happened swiftly, surprising many observers with its timing. Pickett, in turn, requested a trade, signaling his own desire to move on from the organization. 

However, should the Steelers falter with their current quarterback duo, it would inevitably raise questions about the franchise's decision-making process and cast doubt on whether they also mishandled Pickett's tenure.

The narrative surrounding Pickett's departure would likely resurface, with critics pointing to it as another example of organizational missteps. The repercussions of such a scenario could extend far beyond the realm of quarterback performance, permeating discussions about the Steelers' overall direction and competency. 

As fans and analysts dissect the team's struggles, the specter of Pickett's departure would loom large, further intensifying the scrutiny on the organization's decision-makers. Steelers fans are really hopeful that this won't happen. 

Steelers Set For A Boom Or Bust 2024 Season

For many Steelers fans, the expectation of Super Bowl contention runs deep. However, since the 2016 season, the team has faced a playoff drought, failing to secure a postseason victory. In defining a successful season for the Steelers in 2024, the bar is set high: roughly 10 or more wins coupled with one or two playoff victories. Anything falling short of these benchmarks would likely be deemed a disappointment for Tomlin and the Steelers.

Yet, amidst this burning desire for success, both among fans and within the organization, there's a palpable weariness stemming from recent postseason setbacks. The longing to rejoin the ranks of Super Bowl contenders is evident, fueled by a sense of urgency to reclaim past glory. Should Wilson or Fields fail to deliver on these lofty aspirations, the discontent will undoubtedly resurface, echoing loudly throughout the fanbase and reigniting calls for sweeping changes within the organization.