A stunning rumor has emerged from the Steel City, suggesting that Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Omar Khan is eyeing a dramatic shakeup by appointing Special Teams Coordinator Danny Smith as head coach, potentially replacing the long-tenured Mike Tomlin. Sources close to the organization whispered the possibility this weekend, igniting a firestorm of speculation among Steelers Nation just weeks into the 2025 offseason.
The buzz stems from whispers within team circles, first hinted at on X by insider @SteelersTalkNow: “Hearing Omar Khan’s got big plans—Danny Smith as HC? Tomlin’s seat might be hotter than we thought.” Smith, 71, has been with the Steelers since 2013, earning a reputation as a fiery, innovative special teams guru. Under his watch, Pittsburgh’s special teams have led the NFL in blocked kicks since 2022 (9 total), with kicker Chris Boswell ranking second in franchise history for field goal percentage (87.2%). Fan-favorite Miles Killebrew’s First-Team All-Pro nod in 2023 further underscores Smith’s impact.
Tomlin, who’s led the Steelers since 2007 with a 183-102-2 record, two Super Bowl appearances, and a title in XLIII, has faced scrutiny after seven straight playoff seasons without a win. Despite his record-breaking 18 consecutive non-losing seasons, some fans on r/steelers (u/SteelFaith, 22/03/2025) argue, “Tomlin’s stale—Danny’s energy could spark us.” Others balk: “Smith over Tomlin? That’s insane” (u/PitBull412).
Khan, known for bold moves like trading for D.K. Metcalf, has remained tight-lipped. Smith’s 40+ years of coaching experience—including stints with Washington, Buffalo, and Philadelphia—lend credence to the rumor, but his age and lack of head-coaching experience raise doubts. Is this a genuine succession plan or a wild offseason tale? Steelers fans await clarity as the draft looms.
