Overview
- Radio host Andrew Fillipponi claimed on X that Shula “bombed” a virtual interview for Pittsburgh’s head-coach opening.
- Demoff publicly rejected the claim and criticized a process that squeezes postseason interviews into brief virtual slots.
- League rules limited Shula to a virtual meeting while the Rams were in the playoffs, and the Steelers made no in-person follow-up before hiring Mike McCarthy on Jan. 24.
- Steelers owner Art Rooney II confirmed Shula was one of four interviewees, alongside Brian Flores and Anthony Weaver.
- The report’s sourcing and timing drew skepticism from beat reporters as earlier commentary had portrayed Shula as well regarded by Pittsburgh.