Like many former NFL players, Ben Roethlisberger has his own podcast, where he recently suggested it was time for the Steelers to “clean house” in reference to coach Mike Tomlin. However, he recently had to offer further explanation, clarifying that the comment was more of a personal opinion regarding Tomlin’s autonomy.
Brooke Pryor shared Roethlisberger’s response on X to a question about what he meant by “clean house” and a possible departure of Tomlin from Pittsburgh: “that’s just saying that I think Coach Tomlin, if he wants to move on, he has every right to want to move on. Not they should. It’s up to him and he’s earned that,” the former quarterback stated.
This was the original comment Roethlisberger made on his podcast earlier in December: “It’s being talked about around here a lot. Maybe it’s time,” Roethlisberger said Tuesday on his podcast. “Maybe it’s ‘clean house’ time. Maybe it is. … And I like Coach Tomlin. I have a lot of respect for Coach Tomlin, but maybe it’s best for him, too. Maybe a fresh start for him is what’s best, whether that’s in the pros (or not).”
Roethlisberger’s comments preceded Steelers victory
Roethlisberger’s clarification regarding Tomlin came just before the matchup against the Dolphins, a game the Steelers ultimately won. Notably, just an hour before kickoff, Roethlisberger was honored in a ceremony for his induction into the team’s Hall of Honor.
Tomlin had previously congratulated Roethlisberger back on July 26, when the induction class was first announced. “Big-time congratulations to Joey Porter, Maurkice Pouncey and Ben Roethlisberger on being selected for the Hall of Honor Class of 2025. These were three incredible players and are great representatives of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Tomlin posted on X.
Roethlisberger is just one of many who have voiced criticisms of Tomlin recently. Even sections of the Steelers fan base have been calling for a coaching change. However, that decision ultimately rests not just with the coach, who famously hasn’t had a losing season in years, but also with the team’s front office.