Mike Tomlin is speaking out about his biggest rival leaving the AFC North. The Steelers coach reacted to the firing of John Harbaugh this week.

Steelers’ Mike Tomlin Fires Back at John Harbaugh’s Shocking Dismissal (Video)

He claims the move shows how brutal modern sports have become.

Mike Tomlin laments lack of patience in NFL

Tomlin joined “The Rich Eisen Show” to discuss the news. He believes Harbaugh deserved better than a pink slip after 18 seasons.

“I think it’s a component of today’s sport culture,” said Tomlin via the podcast. He sees a disturbing trend across the league regarding job security.

The firing surprised many given Harbaugh’s long tenure in Baltimore. But Tomlin thinks teams are too quick to pull the trigger now.

“Just not a lot of longevity,” Tomlin added. He noted that owners want instant results every single year.

He compared the situation to legends of the past. Coaches like Don Shula and Tom Landry stayed for decades through ups and downs.

“I think those days are gone,” said Tomlin. The era of the lifetime coach seems to be over.

This comment feels ironic since Harbaugh coached for nearly two decades. Yet Tomlin still feels the pressure of the “entertainment component” of the job.

He believes the demand for constant winning drives these decisions. Even a Super Bowl champion is not safe from the axe.

Tomlin remains the longest-tenured coach in the NFL now. He stands alone as the last guard of the old era.

A legendary rivalry comes to an end

The Steelers and Ravens defined physical football for years. Mike Tomlin and Harbaugh stood on opposite sidelines for countless battles.

“Our stories will forever be interwoven,” said Tomlin. He showed deep respect for his former adversary.

They faced each other over 30 times in the regular season and playoffs. No two coaches met more often in recent league history.

The rivalry produced iconic moments and incredibly close scores. It was always the hardest hitting game on the schedule.

Harbaugh leaves with a Super Bowl ring from the 2012 season. He also won the Coach of the Year award in 2019.

His teams were always tough and well-prepared. Tomlin knows he lost a worthy opponent this week.

Mike Tomlin expects Harbaugh to land on his feet soon. The coaching veteran has too much success to stay unemployed for long.

“If he chooses to coach again, then I’m sure he will,” said Tomlin. He doubts Harbaugh is done with football just yet.

The AFC North will look very different next season. Pittsburgh fans will miss the familiar face across the field.

The Ravens must now find someone to fill massive shoes. Mike Tomlin will be waiting to welcome the new guy to the rivalry.

Tomlin appreciates the wars they fought together. He knows those specific Sundays were special for the sport.

The search for Harbaugh’s replacement is underway. Tomlin prepares to face a new challenger.