The Unthinkable Looms: Could 2025 Be Mike Tomlin’s First Losing Season?

For the first time in nearly two decades, the Pittsburgh Steelers are projected to fall short of their win total—and Mike Tomlin’s unblemished record may be in jeopardy.

Kirsten CollinsMay 26, 20251 Mins read22

NFL teams likely to fall short of projected 2025 win total: Mike Tomlin-led Steelers face first losing season

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“The Steelers are 2.5-point underdogs to the Falcons in Week 1.”

It’s an unthinkable line. The Pittsburgh Steelers, perennial contenders and the embodiment of Mike Tomlin’s unyielding discipline, are projected to finish below .500 for the first time in his 18-year tenure. The very notion challenges the narrative of a franchise that has never known mediocrity under Tomlin’s watch.

The Weight of the Schedule

Pittsburgh’s 2025 schedule is a gauntlet. With matchups against the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Detroit Lions, the path to victory appears treacherous. Analysts point to the Steelers’ strength of schedule as a formidable obstacle, one that could derail their aspirations.

Quarterback Quandaries

The quarterback position remains a swirling mystery. With Aaron Rodgers’ future uncertain and no clear successor in sight, the Steelers’ offensive identity is in flux. This uncertainty casts a long shadow over their prospects, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning the team’s direction.

A Legacy on the Line

Mike Tomlin’s legacy is built on consistency and resilience. Yet, as the 2025 season looms, the specter of a losing record threatens to tarnish that legacy. The pressure mounts, and the question arises: can Tomlin defy the odds once more, or is this the beginning of a new chapter for the Steelers?

Unanswered Questions

As the season approaches, the uncertainty surrounding the Steelers grows. Will they overcome their challenges, or will 2025 mark a turning point in their storied history? Only time will tell.