The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced Mike McCarthy as the team’s 17th head coach, making him only the fourth person to hold the position since 1969. The announcement was made by Steelers President Art Rooney II, who highlighted McCarthy’s experience and leadership.
“I am pleased to announce the hiring of Mike McCarthy as our next head coach,” said Steelers President Art Rooney II. “Mike brings a proven track record of success, championship experience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a winning culture in the National Football League.
“Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated strong leadership, a commitment to player development, and the ability to adapt and evolve in a highly competitive league. His experience, preparation, and respect for the traditions of this organization align with the values that have defined the Pittsburgh Steelers for generations.
“We are confident that Mike is the right leader for our football team, and we look forward to working together as we pursue our goal of competing for championships and representing Steelers Nation with pride.”
McCarthy is returning to his hometown of Pittsburgh after serving as head coach for 18 seasons in the NFL—13 years with the Green Bay Packers from 2006 to 2018 and five years with the Dallas Cowboys from 2020 to 2024. Over his career, he has accumulated an overall coaching record of 174-112-2 (.608), ranking him fourth among active NFL coaches in wins and 15th all-time.
At his introduction, McCarthy spoke about his connection to Pittsburgh: “Often times, coaches and players put on new team colors, and it takes a minute to feel comfortable in them,” said McCarthy. “But, if you are blessed beyond measure, one day you put on the colors you’ve worn since you were brought home from Mercy Hospital.
“I want to express my gratitude to Art Rooney, Omar Khan, Dan Rooney and the entire Steelers organization for the trust they have placed in me to represent one of the most storied franchises in all of sports. I understand – and embrace – the responsibility, the privilege and the weight that comes with this stewardship.
“This city, this franchise and this fan base mean the world to me – because Pittsburgh is my world.
“I need to thank two men I’m so fortunate to call friends: Mike Tomlin and Bill Cowher. They represented this organization with such class and I’m honored – honored – to follow them. They left the proverbial cupboard full.
“To my heart, my wife Jessica, our kids, Alex, Danny, Jack, George, Gabby and Izzie… my parents Joe and Ellen and my sisters, Colleen, Ellen and Kellie…the whole crew…you can finally openly wear your Steelers swag.
“My heart is full and my focus is singular: to bring another championship to this great city. Victory parade ‘1137.’”
During his time as head coach in Green Bay and Dallas combined, McCarthy led teams into postseason play 12 times with eight division titles—six NFC North titles with Green Bay Packers; two NFC East titles while at Dallas Cowboys. He guided teams into four NFC Championship Games including leading Green Bay Packers over Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV following the 2010 season.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan also commented on McCarthy’s appointment: “We’re excited to welcome Mike McCarthy as the next head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” said General Manager Omar Khan. “Mike is a proven leader with a championship resume and a clear vision for building a winning team. His experience, preparation, and alignment with Steelers’ values made him the right choice to lead us forward.”
McCarthy’s offenses have been consistently productive throughout his coaching career; his teams finished among top ten league-wide in passing yards (14 times), total offense (11 times), scoring (12 times), guiding four highest-scoring offenses league-wide during those years.
He has worked closely developing quarterbacks such as Joe Montana (as assistant), Brett Favre (Packers), Rich Gannon (Chiefs), Aaron Rodgers (Packers) who won two MVP awards under him—and Dak Prescott (Cowboys). Collectively these quarterbacks have achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections along with MVP honors during their careers under McCarthy’s guidance.
In addition to his head coaching roles at Green Bay Packers (2006–2018) where he ranks second all-time in franchise victories behind Curly Lambeau—and Dallas Cowboys (2020–2024)—McCarthy held assistant coaching positions at New Orleans Saints (offensive coordinator), San Francisco 49ers (offensive coordinator), Kansas City Chiefs (quarterbacks/quality control) among others including college-level posts at University of Pittsburgh early in his career.
Off-the-field contributions include establishing The McCarthy Family Foundation supporting charitable organizations across Wisconsin,Kansas,and Pennsylvania—including causes like autism research,youth sports,and health care institutions.
