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Former Pittsburgh Steelers star Le’Veon Bell was critical of the team’s decision to hire Mike McCarthy as its next head coach after Mike Tomlin resigned earlier this month.
The Steelers announced the McCarthy hire on Saturday. He had stops with the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys before joining the Steelers. He was out for the 2025 season after departing Dallas after three 12-5 seasons from 2021-2023 and a 7-10 season in 2024.
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Then-Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell in a game for the Black and Yellow in November 2018. (Charles LeClaire/USA TODAY Sports)
While McCarthy brings a Super Bowl pedigree to Pittsburgh, Bell made a prediction about how the 2026 season will play out.
“4-13 incoming .. but hey, at least Mike Tomlin isn’t the coach of the Steelers anymore right?” the former running back signed X.
Tomlin was the head coach of the Steelers from 2007 to 2025, replacing Bill Cowher, who was there from 1992 to 2006. He won a Super Bowl with the team in 2008 and never produced a losing season as a head coach. He was 193-114-2 at the helm.
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Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy looks on during the first half against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium on Jan. 5, 2025. (Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images)
“This organization has been a huge part of my life for many years and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team,” Tomlin said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful to Art Rooney II and the late Ambassador Rooney for their trust and support. I am also grateful to the players who gave everything they had every day and to the coaches and staff whose commitment and dedication made this journey so meaningful.
“I also want to thank Steelers Nation. Your passion, loyalty and high expectations represent what makes this franchise truly special. Coaching in Pittsburgh is unlike any other, and I will always be proud to have been a steward of this team.
“While this chapter is coming to an end, my respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change. I am excited for what the future holds for this organization and I will be forever grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”
Former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy waves during halftime of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke, File)
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The Steelers will have a lot of questions to address in the offseason. It starts with the quarterback and whether Aaron Rodgers wants to play again under McCarthy. He is not under contract for 2026 and may decide to retire.
