Mike Tomlin is halfway through a four-year deal that in 2008 paid him $2.5 million, putting him in a tie for 21st on the head coaches' salary list. Ken Whisenhunt also made $2.5 million in 2008. Among those who earned more were rookie head coaches Jim Zorn, John Harbaugh, Tony Sparano and Mike Smith, all at $3 million. Mike Holmgren was the highest paid at $8 million.

Maybe there is no need to negotiate with Tomlin this year, but can you imagine how much more Tomlin might command if, a year from now, his team has won back-to-back Super Bowls?  In that position the Steelers would pay just about anything he wanted, and I'd be thrilled if they did.

Just a thought, but why not try to extend him for an extra five years right now with a bonus that gives him a substantial raise for the next two years? I want to see him on the Steelers sideline for a decade (or more).