Jan. 18, 2026, 1:31 p.m. ET
The New York Giants explored several premier coaching options before finalizing their hire of John Harbaugh on a five-year contract.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that a member of the Giants’ ownership reached out to Mike Tomlin shortly after the long-time Pittsburgh Steelers head coach stepped down on Tuesday.
Tomlin, whose departure from Pittsburgh ended an 18-year tenure, informed the Giants that he does not intend to coach in 2026 — the same message he has delivered to all interested parties.
The inquiry into Tomlin, one of Harbaugh’s fiercest AFC North rivals over the years, occurred before New York completed its deal with Harbaugh. The Giants officially hired the former Ravens coach, who won Super Bowl XLVII with Baltimore, in a move that signals ambition to rebuild quickly.
While Harbaugh prepares to take over in East Rutherford, Tomlin’s decision to step away for the 2026 season has fueled speculation about his long-term future in the league. The Giants’ interest in both coaches underscores the franchise’s determination to secure a proven winner during this cycle’s coaching carousel.
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Ultimately, Harbaugh was their first choice, and that’s who they got.
