The rumor exploded across social media early this morning, with Alabama Portal Insights dropping the bombshell that the Crimson Tide are eyeing the longtime Pittsburgh Steelers head coach for a stunning move to Tuscaloosa. Tomlin, who’s never had a losing season in 19 years with the Steelers and boasts two Super Bowl rings (including one as head coach in Super Bowl XLIII), would represent a massive upgrade in experience if he ever becomes available amid ongoing speculation about his future in Pittsburgh following another early playoff exit.
Kane Womack, the current defensive coordinator hired by Kalen DeBoer in 2024 after a successful run at South Alabama, has been at the helm through Alabama’s transitional post-Saban era. While the Tide’s defense showed improvement in key areas like turnovers and scoring defense during the 2025 campaign — culminating in a strong push to the Rose Bowl — whispers of potential changes have circulated, especially with Womack’s name popping up in head coaching searches elsewhere. If Alabama moves on, landing Tomlin would be the kind of splash hire that signals DeBoer and GM Courtney Morgan are all-in on elite NFL pedigree to elevate the unit.
The personal connection is key here: Tomlin and Alabama’s general manager Courtney Morgan share a close friendship, built through years in the football world and mutual respect for leadership and player development. Morgan, who followed DeBoer from Washington and has been instrumental in roster building via the portal and recruiting, could be the bridge making this blockbuster scenario even remotely possible. In a sport where relationships often drive hires, that bond could prove decisive if Tomlin entertains a dramatic shift from the pros to college football.
Tomlin would bring an unmatched resume: decades of NFL success, a reputation for tough, disciplined defenses, and the ability to motivate players at the highest level. His Steelers units have consistently punched above their weight, emphasizing fundamentals, physicality, and adaptability — traits that could translate powerfully to the SEC grind. For Alabama fans dreaming of a return to defensive dominance, the idea of a two-time Super Bowl winner calling plays in Bryant-Denny Stadium is almost too explosive to process.
This potential pursuit would be one of the wildest storylines of the 2026 offseason, blending NFL stability with college football ambition. While Tomlin’s future remains uncertain — with reports suggesting he’s leaning toward staying in Pittsburgh or even eyeing a media role — Alabama positioning itself as a suitor shows the program’s hunger to reclaim supremacy. If it happens? The Tide could have the most star-studded staff in the country. Stay locked in, Roll Tide nation — this rumor just got real. 🐘🔥
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