Pittsburgh conducted in-person interviews with three candidatesâBrian Flores, Mike McCarthy, and Anthony Weaverâand owner Art Rooney II said the team weighed whether they had âthe manâ for the job before offering it to McCarthy on Saturday.
The Steelers did explore younger options as part of their process. Weaver, Flores, and Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula met with Pittsburgh, but the decision ultimately favored McCarthy. Shulaâs candidacy has come under scrutiny in some circles after reports about his interview performance.
A report from Andrew Fillipponi claimed Shula did not interview well in a virtual session, with one source saying he âbombedâ the interview. Shula, 39, had been regarded as a rising candidate in this coaching cycle, and the evaluation of his interview could affect his stock in the short term.
As Pittsburgh rolls forward with McCarthy at the helm, the franchise faces questions about balancing continuity with a fresh approach, developing young talent, and aligning the coachâs philosophy with Pittsburghâs organizational standards. The hire marks a new chapter for the Steelers after Tomlinâs long tenure.
