NFL: Mike Tomlin steps down as Pittsburgh Steelers head coach

Tomlin released his own statement, saying his “respect and love for the Pittsburgh Steelers will never change.”

“This organization has been an important part of my life for many years and it has been an absolute honor to lead this team,” he added.

“Coaching in Pittsburgh is like no other place and I will always be very proud to have been the steward of this team.

“I am excited about what the future holds for this organization and will always be grateful for my time coaching in Pittsburgh.”

Tomlin never finished a season with a losing record during his 19 years in Pittsburgh and reached the play-offs 13 times, winning eight division titles in the AFC North.

However, Monday’s loss to Houston was his seventh straight playoff loss and fans had expressed displeasure with his coaching during the season, chanting “Fire Tomlin” during games.

Tomlin’s departure means the Steelers will be looking for only their fourth head coach since 1969.

This creates the ninth currently vacant head coaching position in the NFL, with seven head coaches having left their positions since the end of the regular season.