Mike Tomlin to receive contract extension

Entering the fourth year of his contract, speculation has been rampant this off-season, Steelers ownership may have their doubts about head coach Mike Tomlin being the right guy for the job. However, those in the know have contended for months it was a certainty Tomlin would receive a contract extension before training camp.

According to a report by Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that will be the case. Bouchette reports Tomlin has agreed to a new three year extension that runs through the 2014 season. Tomlin had one year left on his deal and a club option for 2011.

The team has yet to make an official announcement.

The 38 year old Tomlin has guided the Steelers to three winning seasons, two playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title in 2008. Financial terms of the new deal are unknown but Tomlin's new deal is expected to pay him upwards of $4.5 million per season, according to league contacts.

Tomlin's new deal reaffirms the Rooney's remain strong supporters of him moving forward and it sends a good message going into the season.

Tomlin's authority on personnel moves during the 2010 draft, especially the team's decision making process in the 2nd round, should have been a clear sign to the doubters that ownership remains behind Tomlin.