Overview
- ESPN’s Marcus Spears publicly named Cignetti as a potential successor to Mike Tomlin, citing his personality and recent success as reasons he could fit in Pittsburgh.
- There is no reporting that the Steelers have approached Cignetti, and coverage stresses that his NFL prospects are speculative at this stage.
- Cignetti signed an Indiana extension in October 2025 through November 2033 at about $11.6 million per year, a costly commitment that complicates any move.
- The Athletic’s Chris Vannini noted the expense and pointed to Cignetti’s past comments about retiring at Indiana, underscoring skepticism about a jump to the NFL.
- Cignetti has led the Hoosiers to a 26-2 record in two seasons and into the national title game, while analysis highlights the Steelers’ history of hiring younger coaches and a deliberate approach to searches.