Steelers Streamline Search to Focus on Top Coaching Candidates
The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively refining their search for top coaching candidates following recent developments in the NFL coaching landscape. As the team continues virtual interviews, other franchises making coaching changes are influencing their strategic direction.
Coaching Changes in the AFC North
Two prominent coaching figures from the Steelers’ rivals recently secured new positions, which reduces the competition for available candidates. Former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh has taken the helm at the New York Giants, while Kevin Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, is now the head coach for the Atlanta Falcons.
Impact on Steelers’ Candidate Pool
- John Harbaugh hired by the New York Giants.
- Kevin Stefanski hired by the Atlanta Falcons.
The Steelers had expressed interest in interviewing several candidates who are now also considered by the Falcons. These included:
- Ejiro Evero – Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator
- Jeff Hafley – Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator
- Jesse Minter – Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator
- Anthony Weaver – Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator
Leading Candidates Emerging
Jeff Hafley appears to be gaining traction as a leading candidate for the Dolphins, with reports indicating he is a frontrunner for their head coach position. Although Hafley had a virtual interview scheduled with the Steelers, it was postponed, potentially indicating his pending agreement with Miami.
On Friday, the Steelers conducted interviews with:
- Nate Scheelhaase – Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator
- Chris Shula – Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator
Additionally, the Steelers planned to virtually meet with Jesse Minter and had requested interviews with:
- Klay Kubiak – San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator
- Brian Flores – Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator
Coaching Interview Restrictions
The Steelers, unlike many teams, typically do not publicize their virtual interviews. They are, however, expected to announce their in-person interviews. Due to league rules, in-person interviews with any coach currently employed by an NFL team cannot commence until Monday following this weekend’s playoffs.
The dynamics of the ongoing NFL playoffs could further influence the Steelers’ search. Coaches from teams competing in the conference championships cannot conduct interviews until their respective playoff runs conclude.
Other Coaching Considerations
Among those not considered by the Steelers is Curt Cignetti, head coach of Indiana University. Cignetti, a Pittsburgh native and son of a long-time coach, indicated his preference for college football over the NFL. He has transitioned Indiana from a struggling program to competing for a national title, showcasing his coaching prowess.
As the Steelers streamline their coaching search, they remain focused on identifying candidates who can lead the team forward.
