The future of the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame head coach and current NBC broadcaster, Mike Tomlin, is causing a stir in NFL front offices, with talks indicating he will be the most sought-after free agent for a head coaching role in NFL history.

Should Tomlin decide to return to coaching, NFL owners will be competing with open checkbooks to secure his services, potentially outbidding the New York Jets.

Are the Jets Going All-In on Tomlin?

Several well-placed league sources close to NFL ownership groups, including teams with coaches facing pressure, have indicated that the New York Jets are gearing up for a possible pursuit of Tomlin from NBC.

“Woody is starting to ask a lot of questions, he’s already doing his homework on Tomlin,” said one executive familiar with Jets owner Woody Johnson. “This one has legs. I’m telling you.

“Mike is in New York where NBC is [studios at Rockefeller Center], Woody is back in the office, he is in charge. He’s around … Woody knows how much competition there is going to be. You are going to hear a lot about the Jets.”

Over the years, Johnson has predominantly hired first-time head coaches, but there may be a shift in strategy now.

Following in the footsteps of their rivals, the Giants, who secured Super Bowl winner John Harbaugh from Baltimore, Johnson could be eyeing Tomlin, who brings a similar track record and longevity with one franchise, Pittsburgh.

If Tomlin were to join the Jets, it would signify more than just a coaching change; it would make a strong statement.

According to sources familiar with Johnson, landing Tomlin would be a significant achievement for the Jets owner, given Tomlin’s experience with media scrutiny in New York.

However, with multiple teams expected to vie for his services, Tomlin could demand a lucrative contract and substantial control over football operations.

General Managers around the league foresee impending changes for the Jets, stating:

“Glenn is a dead-man walking, and he knows it. I hear the same thing about Woody wanting Tomlin. It does make sense. Money wouldn’t be an object.”

Could Tomlin’s Appointment Also Bring Lamar Jackson to New York?

In light of Tomlin’s potential move to the Jets, there is speculation within NFL circles about a potential acquisition of quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP.

Jackson is heading into a contract season with uncertain long-term prospects in Baltimore due to disagreements over a new deal.

Representing himself, Jackson may have halted extension talks with the Ravens, with his current contract carrying a hefty $85 million cap hit in 2027 and clauses restricting trades and franchise tags.

Many GMs and contract negotiators believe Jackson may seek a trade, especially following his trade request from the previous year.

Sources indicate that Tomlin’s potential presence in New York, coupled with the Jets’ multiple draft picks, could pique Jackson’s interest in a move.

Tomlin and Jackson have a strong existing relationship from their time competing in the AFC North, enhancing the appeal of a potential move to the Jets.

Furthermore, the Jets have made strides in rebuilding their defense, making them a more attractive destination for the star QB.

Given Johnson’s track record of bold moves and Tomlin’s preference for experienced quarterbacks, a potential trade scenario warrants attention.

How a Tomlin-Jackson Partnership Could Transform the Jets

A partnership between one of the NFL’s largest-market teams and a two-time MVP quarterback under a seasoned coach like Tomlin would elevate the Jets to top-tier football status.

Transitioning from being a perennial underdog, a Tomlin-Jackson pairing would make the Jets prime-time viewing and generate significant interest from the NFL.