Mike Munchak Likely to Stay With Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line coach Mike Munchak was one of the hottest names thrown into the ring following the opening of eight head coaching positions around the league just a few weeks ago. Munchak was expected to pursue a second stint as a head coach after leading the Tennessee Titans to a 22-26 record over three seasons from 2011-2013.

After helping build one of the best offensive line units in the league, it appeared that Munchak was on his way to find a new gig and escape the soap opera-esque atmosphere that had enveloped his team in Pittsburgh. Yet Munchak wouldn’t leave his current position for just any new gig, as he would only leave for the “exact right fit” per Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network.

After declining to interview with the Miami Dolphins, Munchak had expressed great interest in the Denver Broncos head coaching position. After interviewing with the Broncos organization, the race was narrowed down to Munchak and Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Broncos decided on Fangio as their new guy moving forward.

Denver reached agreement with Bears’ DC Vic Fangio to become the Broncos’ next head coach, sources tell me and @DanGrazianoESPN. It will be a four-year deal plus a team option for a fifth, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 9, 2019

What’s this mean for Munchak and the Steelers?

Unless a last-minute, undeniable offer comes through for Munchak, he will likely stay put in Pittsburgh for another season. Munchak has undoubtedly proved his worth within the organization, and just might see a promotion within the team itself in order to keep him around for the long-term. In an off-season filled with seemingly nothing but self-implosion, the Steelers got a huge victory by having Munchak stay in their building, even if it’s for one more season.