Chris Simms doesn’t expect Mike Tomlin to stay in television for long. The NBC Sports analyst believes today’s coaching salaries could pull Tomlin back to the sidelines sooner than later.
What We Know: Tomlin joined NBC’s Football Night in America this season after 19 years leading the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, his arrival came amid a major overhaul of the pregame show. Soon after, Simms, an NBC analyst since 2016, learned he would lose his seat on the program’s panel. In an exclusive interview with Barrett Media, Simms says while it hurts to no longer be a part of Football Night In America, he feels Tomlin isn’t staying long term either.
What They Said: (All quotes via Barrett Media):
Chris Simms thinks Mike Tomlin will likely take a head coaching role if it’s the right fit: “I don’t see him [Mike Tomlin] staying long term. He’s really good at it, but I think he’s a great coach. He’s a great leader of men. Also, the best communicator of any coach I’ve ever been in a locker room with. But the way they’re paying these coaches now, if there’s a situation he likes, I don’t think he’ll turn it down. That’s just a guess.”
Chris Simms on no longer being a part of NBC Sports Football Night In America: “It stings I’m not on that show anymore. I did love doing it, and it kind of felt like it was coming that way. When they tell you you’re awesome on the show and grading higher than anybody every week, then you don’t get to go on the show in the future, you’re a little confused by it.”
What Remains Unclear: However, it remains unclear how long Tomlin plans to stay at NBC. Andrew Marchand has reported that NBC gave Tomlin a backloaded deal to encourage him to stay. Still, Tomlin has said he hasn’t thought much about coaching again. Furthermore, Simms’ path back to the panel remains uncertain.
What It Means: Ultimately, Simms’ comments highlight a growing challenge for TV networks. Top NFL coaches now earn salaries that networks may struggle to match. Consequently, NBC could face another shakeup sooner than expected. For now, though, Tomlin remains the centerpiece of the show. As for Simms, with a under two years on his current NBC Sports agreement, he told Barrett Media he wouldn’t dismiss any idea of moving independent if the decision fits his goals.
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