The NFL Scouting Combine is a critical event where teams evaluate prospects' physical skills and mental acuity, but for Quinn Ewers, the Texas Longhorns quarterback, his meeting with the Pittsburgh Steelers focused more on personal attributes than on football strategy. Head coach Mike Tomlin specifically expressed interest in Ewers' academic performance, asking about his major and GPA. Ewers, who studied physical culture in sports, noted that he and Tomlin shared a light-hearted moment discussing college experiences, reminiscent of a controversial tweet from former Ohio State quarterback Cardale Jones about prioritizing football over academics.

Ewers shared that his GPA was around 3.3 to 3.4, which caught Tomlin's attention. Unlike other teams, the Steelers did not request Ewers to diagram plays on a whiteboard during their meeting, signaling a different approach in their evaluation. Ewers mentioned that he had seven formal meetings at the combine, with Pittsburgh and the Las Vegas Raiders being the only teams that focused less on football skills during their assessments.

A ranking of the top 10 NFL head coaches since 2000 reveals a mix of legendary figures and current titans shaping the league's landscape. The list features Bill Belichick at No. 1, recognized for his unmatched six Super Bowl victories, followed closely by Andy Reid, who has established a dynasty with the Kansas City Chiefs and is on the brink of a historic sixth Super Bowl appearance. Pete Carroll, now at the helm of the Las Vegas Raiders, ranks third due to his previous successes with the Seahawks, including two Super Bowl appearances. Mike Tomlin's consistent performance with the Pittsburgh Steelers earns him a spot at No. 4, while Tony Dungy, known for revolutionizing the game, is fifth due to his limited playoff success in the 21st century.

The list highlights the challenges and achievements of coaches like John Harbaugh and Sean Payton, both of whom have faced ups and downs in their respective tenures. Sean McVay's rapid rise with the Rams sees him in the eighth position, while Tom Coughlin, known for his Giants' Super Bowl victories, stands ninth. Bruce Arians rounds out the list, celebrated for his innovative coaching style and resilience.

These rankings reflect not only the coaches' win-loss records but also their ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving sport, with a focus on playoff appearances and championships.

Justin Fields, currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers, may have a smooth transition if he moves away from the team in 2025. The 25-year-old quarterback, a former first-round pick, has proven potential with 44 NFL starts. After joining the Steelers from the Chicago Bears, Fields had an impressive run, throwing for over 1,100 yards and securing a 4-2 record in six games.

Speculation arises regarding potential new homes, particularly the Tennessee Titans, who hold the No. 1 draft pick. With uncertainty surrounding their QB situation, Fields emerges as a viable option despite the team's interest in drafting a generational talent. The Steelers must consider the possibility of losing Fields, although he remains a top contender to lead the team next season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to experience changes within their coaching staff, as confirmed by owner Art Rooney II following a disappointing end to the season. Despite a five-game losing streak that tarnished an initially promising campaign, Rooney indicated that adjustments are on the horizon, albeit likely on a smaller scale rather than through sweeping changes. "I don’t expect wholesale changes, but yes, I think there are probably gonna be a couple changes,” he stated, emphasizing the organization's continued support for head coach Mike Tomlin. This year, the Steelers had one of the smallest coaching staffs in the league, but Rooney dismissed the notion that this was a significant factor in the team’s struggles.

While major shifts seem unlikely, the Steelers might see some turnover among their position coaches as they aim to maintain continuity heading into the future. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin are expected to remain with the team, as both have shown progression under their leadership.

Donte Jackson's transition from the Carolina Panthers to the Pittsburgh Steelers has been marked by a stark contrast in playoff experiences. After spending six seasons with the Panthers, Jackson was traded as part of the Diontae Johnson deal and found himself in the playoffs with the Steelers almost immediately. In light of ongoing discussions about Mike Tomlin's coaching future, Jackson offered a cautionary perspective. He pointed to his years in Carolina where he witnessed considerable turnover in coaching staff, contrasting this with Tomlin's consistent leadership despite the playoff struggles. Jackson emphasized the importance of stability within an organization, arguing against the impulsiveness of fans calling for change.

Jackson stated, "I've seen three coaches get fired during the season... Not let alone during the season, bro. That's crazy." He underscored that the Panthers have had three head coaches since 1969, a stark reminder that change does not always equate to improvement. The conversation highlights the value of consistency in NFL coaching, especially as fans grow restless for playoff success.