Steelers and Dick LeBeau Part Ways
By Kim Myers
It’s the end of an era. Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau has resigned from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 77-year-old called it a “mutual parting” in an interview with the Urbana Citizen, in his native city of Urbana, Ohio.
"“I’m resigning this position, not retiring. I had a great run in Pittsburgh. I’m grateful for all the things that have happened to me and thankful for all the support I had in Pittsburgh.” – Dick LeBeau"
LeBeau had two stints as defensive coordinator for the Steelers, from 1995-96 and then again from 2004-2015. During his most recent stint the Steelers had three trips to the Super Bowl and took home two victories in Super Bowl XL and XLIII.
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Most recently, the Steelers have experienced a decline in defense over the past few years with record-low numbers in sacks and turnovers, two things LeBeau’s defense was primarily known for in its heyday.
While it’s hard to imagine a Steelers defense not led by LeBeau I can’t honestly say that it isn’t a good time for a change. The Steelers have been trying to get younger on defense, and this might be one way to jump start that into action.
Linebackers coach Keith Butler has long been assumed as LeBeau’s eventual replacement so it will be interesting to see if that’s what ends up happening.
What do you think of LeBeau leaving the Steelers?