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Aaron Rodgers Heard Sobbing as Mike Tomlin Steps Down After 19 Seasons

Owner Art Rooney II says the coach's decision will factor into Rodgers' choice on whether to keep playing.

Overview

  • Tomlin informed the team of his resignation in the meeting room on Tuesday, received a standing ovation, and hugged players one by one.
  • Multiple players and staff described the mood as feeling like a funeral following the announcement.
  • Rodgers repeatedly said, "I'm sorry," through tears, according to accounts from inside the room.
  • T.J. Watt fought back tears while saying "No" over and over, and Joey Porter Jr. nearly hyperventilated, per the same report.
  • Tomlin has two years remaining on his contract, Pittsburgh could seek compensation if he coaches elsewhere before 2027, and Rodgers has not yet announced whether he will retire after signing a one-year deal last June citing Tomlin as a key reason.