As a Ravens fan, I love this move.
LeBeau, the class guy that he is, as opposed to the Roonies, gave the story to a local newspaper near where he grew up.
He may come back to haunt the Steelers. If they had drafted better defensive players, he’s still be there.
What?
The defense has not been all that good in recent years, which probably can be laid at the feet of the draft guys as much as LeBeau, but that fact remains. Also, LeBeau wasn’t going to coach forever, they had an heir apparent with Butler, and it must have seemed an ideal time to make a change.
I’m not happy that they let him go, but coaching changes happen in the NFL. How does that make the Rooneys classless? If anything they hurt the team by holding on to players too long instead of making the obvious business decision and cutting them.
The Roonies should have stepped up and taken the lead on his “retirement.” When you shitcan the guy, whatever the reason, you could always hold a press conference and praise him. Leaves a better taste in some of your fans mouths.
Change now or change next year. They knew it would happen at some point and I think it’s the right decision to give Butler the reins. Arizona is losing their DC and Arians has never been shy about shopping in Pittsburgh whether for coaches or players. I’m a huge fan of Lebeau and would love to have seen him come out on the other side of this transition phase for the defense but that’s the way it is. It will be interesting to see if they will name Butler to the position or just let him interview for it like they did with Whisenhunt and Grimm. I’m hoping it’s Butler and they use almost their entire draft on that side of the ball; that would make me feel pretty good heading into next season.
(Totally NSFW)