Mike Tomlin’s sudden resignation as Pittsburgh Steelers head coach on Tuesday has sent shockwaves through the NFL, and the Las Vegas Raiders are among the teams expected to explore the possibility of acquiring the Super Bowl-winning leader.

Tomlin, who never posted a losing record in 19 seasons, led the Steelers to 13 playoff appearances and a championship in 2008. His track record of stability and success makes him an attractive candidate for a Raiders franchise seeking a cultural reset.

However, significant hurdles exist. Tomlin remains under contract with the Steelers through 2026, meaning any team that wants him must negotiate a trade. The Denver Broncos set a precedent in 2023 by sending a first-round pick to the New Orleans Saints for Sean Payton. Additionally, Tomlin is reportedly considering a lucrative television career, which could begin as early as next season, forcing the Raiders to offer a massive financial package to lure him away from broadcasting.

Perhaps the biggest concern is Tomlin’s lack of experience developing a young quarterback. The Raiders hold the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft and are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Tomlin inherited Ben Roethlisberger, who already had a Super Bowl ring, and has struggled to find a franchise quarterback since Roethlisberger’s retirement.

Despite these drawbacks, Tomlin’s leadership, accountability, and ability to field disciplined, hard-nosed teams are exactly what the Raiders need. He rarely loses games due to lack of preparation, and his players consistently play hard for him. Whether the Raiders are willing to pay the price—both in draft capital and money—remains to be seen.