Steelers Linebackers Coach Keith Butler to be Hired as Colts Defensive Coordinator
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 4:27 PM EST
in Steelers Rumors
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PrintIf Arizona is Pittsburgh West, it appears as if Indianapolis will be Pittsburgh Midwest.
Steelers Envy appears to be running rampant in Indy.
Sources are reporting Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler will serve as the Colts' defensive coordinator under head coach Chuck Pagano.
Pagano, Arians and Butler all used to work together in Cleveland, making their reunion less surprising. Butler, who was said to be Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau's successor should he retire, is accepting a promotion, therefore, does not need the Steelers' permission to interview with another team.
Butler has been in charge of the famed Steelers linebackers since 2003, under then head coach Bill Cowher. He is one of the last remnants of the Cowher era, and was said to have been a favorite of owner Dan Rooney.
In that time, Butler has guided Joey Porter, James Farrior, James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley to pro bowls, and has overseen both Harrison and Woodley during a period where they've become the best tandem of pass rushers in the game.
His move is proceeded by former Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, who will be hired as Indianapolis' offensive coordinator as soon as Monday.
Pagano took over the Colts from his defensive coordinator position in Baltimore. He will continue to formalize his staff in anticipation of a completely new look for the Colts. Butler's experience and track record can be rivaled by few - if any - position coaches in the game, and along with the success he had in Baltimore, Indianapolis looks to be focusing on an aggressive defensive set-up.
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Its crazy how sought after
Steelers coaches are around the league (Green Bay, Arizona, Indy, etc). And even Raven’s and Patriots coaches to some extent. Every team in the league wants a Pittsburgh/Baltimore style defense and New England style offense.
Most definitely
This is Pittsburgh Steeler Troy Polamalu getting knocked around by the Pacific Ocean in Hawaii yesterday...
Minutes later, Troy caught the ocean going over the middle and smacked it right in the mouth. The ocean fumbled, Troy recovered and ran it into the endzone. The ocean never messed with Troy again.
The LeBeau heir apparent
Butler was the one to keep the steeler tradition alive and going strong. Now it will never be.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 29, 2012 5:52 PM EST up reply actions
unother one bits the dust
mega-mongaloid changes in the steel city…two new coaches and we really need some help on D up the middle…
A manager needs to make some room for younger guys to be promoted.
Missed opportunity here around Butler
So, can this possibly be seen...
…as a purge by Tomlin of the remaining coaches brought in prior to him? Or is Butler’s (reported) departure just a bad coincidence? I realize Tomlin was applauded for not coming in and insisting on putting his “own stamp” on the team by replacing everyone, but maybe he’s waited too long, and now the Steelers will be forced to react to these changes, as opposed to causing them directly?
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
He got a D coordinator job, he wasn’t going to wait forever. Besides those guys have shelf lives of two years, who’s to say he doesn’t come back down the line?
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 7:47 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Different topic...
…did a FanPost get pulled? I thought there was one titled something like “…Ben Deserves to Play…” or am I having a premature senior moment?
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
No, you're right.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
Any idea why it was pulled?...
…I had a comment on it, but left to eat; upon return, couldn’t find post, or my comment.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
by PaVaSteeler on Jan 29, 2012 10:05 PM EST up reply actions
Which post was it?
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 10:07 PM EST up reply actions
Something with "...Ben Deserves to Play" in the title...
…and I posted an early comment, which had in header: “Oh where…”
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
by PaVaSteeler on Jan 29, 2012 10:11 PM EST up reply actions
not me...
I don’t know how to kill a post and I haven’t seen one I would kill anyway.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jan 29, 2012 11:58 PM EST up reply actions
I have no idea. There weren’t any personal attacks or curse words in the post or comments section, so I can’t say for sure why it’s gone. I will say that the whole post was, for lack of a better word, stupid, so I’m kind of happy it was pulled.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
Did you think the author decided that Ben, in fact, no longer deserves to play, and he or she pulled the article his or herself?
I didn’t look over any Fanposts and I could count on one finger the amount of those Bean has pulled.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 10:37 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Or maybe its back in for editing..
…ok, just wondering if I had written a comment, or was just dreaming. The way this off season is starting for the Steelers, it is beginning to feel more like nightmares.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
by PaVaSteeler on Jan 29, 2012 10:50 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll let Homer set you straight in the way he always does, but I’ll cite Carnell Lake as an example. Ray Horton came from within, did pretty not bad in his time here and did a great job as the DC in Arizona this year.
Lake steps in, barely having coached previously, and Pittsburgh’s secondary, despite a lack of turnovers, was the best its been in years.
Everyone can and eventually will be replaced.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 11:38 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Mistake to let him go
and I hope DL has the sense to discuss this with management and steps down to prevent it….
Steelers had no way to stop it unless they promoted him probably. His contract was up so they would have had to resign him and he wanted the promotion which is no surprise.
by MoralesHomers on Jan 29, 2012 7:36 PM EST up reply actions
You think him taking a DC job elsewhere = us letting him go?
I can assure you that you are wrong.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Jan 29, 2012 10:27 PM EST up reply actions
Couple clarifications
I recently saw a report that Arizona had refused permission for one of their position coaches to be interviewed for a coordinator position, so the issue here is that Butler’s contract expired this year. Apparently only coordinators can be approached for HC positions, while position coaches cannot be contacted for coordinator positions unless the team that they are under contract with grants permission.
Bad timing for the Steelers if they can’t keep him, but it sounds like he want to be a DC. I think that the FO does need to get a commitment (at least 3 years) from Lebeau if they really see Butler has his eventual replacement.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Jan 29, 2012 5:48 PM EST reply actions
Good call on LeBeau
If he is only willing to commit to his usual one year contract, then it’s time to part ways. Another option would be to make LeBeau the teams Assistant Coach, and giving Butler the DC job. LeBeau and Butler could split duties, with both of them developing the game plan, getting the players coached up, and one of them calling plays on game day. This type of arrangement happens a lot with offensive coordinators, with Green Bay being the best example. Joe Philbin was the Packers OC, but Mike McCarthy does all of the play calling.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 6:02 PM EST up reply actions
could you post the link to that story?
My understanding is it goes top to bottom; coaches and front office personnel cannot interview for lateral positions, but they’re free game for higher positions.
However, let’s just say you’re right, if he’s interviewing for the job (it seems like a formality because of his past relationship with Pagano) then the Colts received permission to do so. That means they’re prepared to let him walk.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 7:57 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
ed bouchette tweeted this afternoon
that Butler told him that he receviced permission to interview with indy
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 7:59 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe he did it out of courtesy…I dunno, I guess I’m wrong but that really seems against standard employment practice.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 10:42 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Butler is not the Colts DC
The Colts want Butler as their DC, and are prepared to make him an offer, but Butler has not made an official decision. Butler is scheduled to interview with the Colts on Tuesday, which gives the Steelers time to make a decision.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 5:53 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
Yep. Was just going to say this
Rooney better make a strong, strong effort to keep him on the staff. He is set to take over as the DC in 1 to 2 years when Lebau retires. If we lose Butler, who is going to be our next DC? Lake? Seems to soon for that
draftdatabase.wordpress.com
Follow @steelersrule124
by seton hall and steelers on Jan 29, 2012 6:02 PM EST up reply actions
Butler wants to stay in Pittsburgh
The FO should come up with some sort of arrangement that allows LeBeau and Butler to share the DC responsibilities. Give Butler the title of DC, and let LeBeau be the assistant head coach. This way, Butler can ease into the role under the mentorship of LeBeau, with the security that the Steelers are committed to him as their DC.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 6:05 PM EST up reply actions
Excellent idea.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 29, 2012 6:43 PM EST up reply actions
Or...
He could just go be the defensive coordinator in Indianapolis…cuz that’s a real job and he wouldn’t be pushing out a Hall of Fame member who just coached the league top scoring defense.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 10:47 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Butler could have been a DC a long time ago
but he wanted to stay in Pittsburgh.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 11:29 PM EST up reply actions
Interesting point, because I didn’t read anything about him ever interviewing for a DC job previously. They didn’t let him go in the Great Western Migration in 2007, but he’s interviewing now…perhaps that’s because they’ve already discussed it and all sides feel it’s best for him to move on. The Steelers can’t force Lebeau out and Butler can’t wait forever for a DC opportunity he’s earned.
How’s that saying go? One in the hand is better than two in the bush?
by Neal Coolong on Jan 30, 2012 12:06 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
He turned down the Dolphins offer to become their DC in 2010
by Greig Clawson on Jan 30, 2012 12:59 AM EST up reply actions
Ahh...I see
Somehow I missed that.
Alright, I stand corrected. The odds of this being just a large leverage move on his part have just gone up quite a bit in my book. We shall see…
by Neal Coolong on Jan 30, 2012 6:01 AM EST up reply actions
Your comment was just as valid today as it was in 2007. The guy wants to move on, and Rooney can’t just fire Lebeau.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 11:29 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Co-Defensive Coordinators?
There is nothing in the rule about just havig one offensive and one defensive coach. He could be give the Co-defensive coordinator position a raise in pay accordingly and then could only go to teams that want him as a head coach.
Huge fan of the Steelers. (that includes "Steelers West")
"If I could start my life over again, I would be a professional football player and you better damn well believe a Pittsburgh Steeler!"- Jack Lambert
that's an important clarification
Butler and the Steelers front office could still work together to keep him here. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette today wrote that he “could” become the Colts DC, and the ESPN story is that the Colts “plan” to sign him.
Bill Beeelichick proved that in America it’s okay to cheat, as long as you cheat your way to the top. – Eric Cartman
While that’s technically true, there’s no way Pagano went into an interview for a head coaching job without knowing who he would offer his coordinator jobs to. I’m sure the first few guys he called after getting the offer were Arians and Butler. Butler no doubt said something to the Steelers and the whole thing wouldn’t have gone as far as it has if it wasn’t a 95 percent certainty it was happening.
More than anything, it’s cuz the contract lawyers don’t work over the weekend and they’ll draw up the offer formally tomorrow.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 10:54 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Nothing is happening until Tuesday
Butler hasn’t made a decision, and will meet with the Colts on Tuesday for an interview. Not saying he won’t be the next DC for the Colts, but he could just as likely be with the Steelers next season.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 11:32 PM EST up reply actions
I’m sorry, but it’s ridiculous to think he’s contemplating this. Are we really so full of ourselves as Steelers fans to think a guy who’s been in the same job for the last nine years is going to make it 10 and turn down what’s probably a 100 percent pay increase and a chance to work with a longtime friend because he wants to work for the Steelers?
With all due respect I think you’re being very naive. Any “interview” he’s doing will be nothing more than him coming down there to see the area, talk to the owner and sign a contract. Pagano got hired long enough ago that the Steelers were aware all this was going down. If they were interested in holding him to a lesser job for yet another year, we wouldn’t have heard anything about the Colts’ interest in him joining their staff. They would have signed him and moved on with their offseason.
And of course, I’m a moron so I fully admit I could be wrong. No problem admitting it when I am but we’ll be formally out a linebackers coach on Tuesday, and the only thing the Steelers are talking about internally is who will replace the departed.
We dont even have a damn offensive coordinator yet.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 11:58 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
It’s not so ridiculous when you consider that this isn’t the first time Butler and the Steelers have been down this road. Butler interviewed for the Dolphins DC position in 2010, was offered the job, and ultimately turned them down after the Steelers offered him a raise to stay in Pittsburgh.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 30, 2012 1:04 AM EST up reply actions
I stand corrected
I wasn’t aware of the Dolphins offer. I’ve always assumed there’s been interest, but I figured the Steelers kept it out of the media. Certainly common for a coach in either the NFL or college to use another offer as leverage with his current team/school, but figured by this point it’s happened so often, he’s by far and away the highest paid position coach in the game.
Anyway, I yield. Maybe he’ll stay.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 30, 2012 6:04 AM EST up reply actions
2010 all over again!
I guess history really does repeat itself. Butler got himself a new contract with the Steelers, and probably a raise.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 30, 2012 9:48 PM EST up reply actions
Manning is gone
The Colts obviously want an AFC North type team after hiring Pagano, Arians and Butler. No way Peyton has a place in that scenario.
by Steelerfaninboston on Jan 29, 2012 6:35 PM EST reply actions
I'd take back Arians, if it meant we could keep Butler.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 29, 2012 6:44 PM EST reply actions
Butler is forcing the hand of the Steelers to replace dick lebeau
I say let him go only if lebeau can commit to at least a 3 year deal if he can’t then it is time to part ways and try to keep Butler
some comments of keeping lebeau would be bad because Butler would not have control and it would always be lebeau’s Defense not his. He would still be living in the shadow it seems of lebeau.
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 7:04 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
either way this is bad lose dick lebeau or lose his successer
lebeau has some years left him and it would not surprise me if we promote butler to DC and lebeau goes somewhere else.
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 7:13 PM EST reply actions
this sucks
Lebeau isn’t going anywhere. Only hope was that he decided to hang it up before Butler got tired of waiting, but it doesn’t look like that’s gonna happen now.
I think all the title-sharing is wishful thinking. Butler will go to the Colts. We’ll still have a hall of fame coach… we just won’t have any plan B. Mitchell’s up there, Lake has only coached for a year, etc.
Makes me think we’re gonna end up with Raheem Morris as our DC in 2-3 years…
I hope not on Morris.
I know he and Tomlin are have ties, but something about him bothers me. Seems to still need some maturing.
Stay thirsty my friends.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 29, 2012 7:46 PM EST up reply actions
Not what I wanted to read
I am not saying we are rebuilding, but man all these changes certainly makes our usually dead offseason a whole lot more interesting, and I dont like it
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
This off-season is turning into...
…a period of unintended consequences for the Steelers. I don’t know how to interpret what is happening. On one hand, its not unusual for senior coaches to be lured away from successful teams, but did not the FO have an inkling that Butler was ripe for plucking? Was the request for permission to interview with the Colts a surprise, or did they know he would be impatient with LeBeau coming back another year?
If they knew, isn’t the decision to let Arians go maybe a bit foolhardy? If they didn’t know, are they being a bit over confident that a suitor will wait forever for the dream job of DC of the Steelers?
I’m also beginning to wonder if there aren’t cracks in the FO foundation forming; something of the timing of all this feels quite unsettling to me.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
He didnt need permission to interview with the Colts apparantly because it is a promotion from his current role. I am just hoping like hell we have not taken Butler for granted. The man is a competitor and wants his shot to run his own defense, and will not wait behind LeBeau forever, especially if he thinks he is ready (which I personally do think he is)
This is speculation though, but its no secret that Arians, Pagano and Butler have all worked together before.
I’ve always liked our quiet, consistent approach to coaching changes and the offseason in general, so maybe I am more shocked that our coaching ranks are potentially have an overhaul for the first time in 5 years.
The thing is, we saw the changes of the 2006-2007 offseason coming. These ones are all the more surprising
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 8:53 PM EST up reply actions
I am 100% with u PaVa
the complete way all these coaching things have happened is from an outside perspective been completely handled in a negative way…. and losing both veteran players and senior coaching staff, to me, gonna add further pressure to both our players, and new coaches….whole thing seems like 2 steps back to me..
by OR69faithfull on Jan 29, 2012 10:29 PM EST up reply actions
We had better get our act together.
I thought they gave butler a raise to stay in Pitt? If we do not take this guy and promote him to dc then I think we are shooting ourselves in the foot. Dad could easilykmove to,assistant coach and allow,for the progression to take place a year earlier. How long can Dad coach?
Does Tomlin have any input and if so what exactly is he saying?
Impose your will.
bad management style to be blackmailed by an employee
do we get rid of a hall of fame coach just to promote a successor. It opens too many doors for backstabbing among the leadership ranks. In addition it is easier to train a successor then lose a master.
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 9:09 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah I get that.
Just thought that Lebeau’s WAS retiring this year and that’s why they extended Butlers contract. The fact that Morris’ name is kicked around frightens me. Odder still, there have been no reports of potential prospects for the OC position.
Impose your will.
morris name was only kicked around here
i until I here see somewhere official then I am not concerned
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 9:27 PM EST up reply actions
You'll see it this morning
but I wrote extensively on the topic of the direction of the defense and how it pertains to the draft. Morris’ experience is solely in the Tampa 2, and I don’t think the Steelers have the personnel in place for that kind of a swing. Morris would’t be the right guy right now anyway, but wouldn’t rule him out in the future.
Even more interesting…he turned down the defensive coordinator position in Minnesota to be the defensive backs coach in Washington. If Butler does leave and Lebeau retires after 2012, Morris will without question be a candidate here. Which players the Steelers draft on the defensive side of the ball (the ILBs and DL in particular) will be very telling as to any potential alignment change they may have in mind.
by Neal Coolong on Jan 30, 2012 6:07 AM EST up reply actions
And that’s all I have to say about that.
Not really. Sucks If he does leave, as I would love for him to be Dad’s successor, but I wish him the best, and can’t blame him for taking an oppurtunity. He’s been more than patient; it’s just the cost of being successful. And poor Steelers, they still only have perhaps the greatest defensive mind in the history of the game. Shucks.
P.S. More good news: Ryan Clark sustained some kind of injury in the pro bowl. Didn’t look horrible but he limped off the field.
by Tim Mullhaupt (HSS) on Jan 29, 2012 9:12 PM EST reply actions
clarks is back out there on ST
so he can not be that hurt
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 9:19 PM EST up reply actions
That's just bleeping great! - me.
Impose your will.
Clark's ok, he just got beat
on a 65-yard pass from Newton to Steve Smith TD.
He couldn’t have covered it much better.
by Tim Mullhaupt (HSS) on Jan 29, 2012 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
that was
Brown covering Smith, Clark didn’t come back in as a D player after he limped off
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 30, 2012 8:02 AM EST up reply actions
sorry
wrong play
People don't ever seem to realize that doing what's right is no guarantee against misfortune.
- William McFee
by stillergorillar on Jan 30, 2012 8:07 AM EST up reply actions
Brown is tweeting during the game
hope he does not get in trouble
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 9:30 PM EST reply actions
in fact I think it's encouraged.
by Tim Mullhaupt (HSS) on Jan 29, 2012 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
Stupid ay
Goodell on ProBowl tweeting:
“I think its great, creates a great atmosphere and the guys can share their experiences with the fans as they happen”
Goodell on regular season tweeting:
“The guys should be focusing on their main priority, which is making me money”
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 9:45 PM EST up reply actions
have Two-Face gain some superfluous weight and hang out in the dark - and look at those creepy, tiny hands on Goodell
he looks like a damned potato
I pledge allegiance to the Terrible Towel and the only team in America, and to the franchise for which it stands, one nation under Rooney, indivisible, with the ability to crush you all.
"He was popping off down there the first time they were about to score. So you run your mouth, expect to get something. Everything's between the lines, so he got what he had coming. He was running his mouth and getting in the way of the train, and the train wasn't coming off the track."
-James Harrison on Kyle Orton
Those creepy tiny hands sure can snatch & grab a lot of dough, though...
http://tr4f.wordpress.com
Mountainbiking the Continental Divide in 2012 to raise awareness of human trafficking.
by Fifty-Eight on Jan 30, 2012 4:39 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
James Harrison specifically said he would not tweet during the game
because it was hypocritical in his view. There’s a surprise: James Harrison calling a hypocrite a hypocrite.
HERE WE GO STEELERS!
"Our Father, who art in Pittsburgh, Football be thy game. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, at Heinz Field as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, a stellar D and forgive us our bogus fines, as we (sorta) forgive Goodell who trespasses against us. And lead us not into defeat, but deliver us a Victory. For thine is The Steelers, the power and glory of climbing the STAIRWAY TO 7."
by 1BlkGldFan on Jan 30, 2012 1:07 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don't blame Butler for leaving. I hate to see him go, but those jobs don't just grow on trees.
I know he was said to be the Steelers DC in waiting, but you just never know what the future holds. Who’s to say that the Steelers wouldn’t have a change in defensive philosophy and want to go in an entirely new direction with like a 4/3 defense or something? And like Neal said, he could come back. Lebeau left here for a few years and then came back.
I agree with this
He is capable now of running his own defense. He wont wait forever here, and nor should he
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 10:08 PM EST up reply actions
I would be very bummed to see Butler go.
Dude has been solid for a decade here, and has some incredibly valuable experience to pass on to the next generation. Not to mention, he’s tough as nails. This is good for a D.C.
But from what I understand it’s not totally official yet. Steelers can still counter, and part of that counter might be a built in “You ARE the man when Coach Dad retires.” Sort of like how Garrett and Caldwell were lined-up with a promise in regards to succeeding the head coaches in Indy and Dallas.
And to get a little “Mulder/Scully” on it: If something like that doesn’t get him to stick around, maybe we get him back when LeBeau DOES retire. And MAYBE, just throwing out scenarios, the Steelers don’t mind him going to Indy, and they are all planning to reunite when the time is right.
http://tr4f.wordpress.com
Mountainbiking the Continental Divide in 2012 to raise awareness of human trafficking.
by Fifty-Eight on Jan 29, 2012 10:22 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah exactly
Butler is closer to LeBeau than any of us, so their private conversations in the coming days could well decide his future, whether it is with us or the Colts
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
frankly
wanted him as our Dc and convert to a 4-3….
by OR69faithfull on Jan 29, 2012 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
hes a 3-4 coach
Hell, hes coached our LB’s for years and they all excel as 3-4 LBs. Why change that
Formerly known as Steeler_
BTSC's token Kiwi fan. That means I'm a New Zealander. Yes, that small country next to Australia....no we are not part of Australia
by Michael Hewitt on Jan 29, 2012 10:33 PM EST up reply actions
well
hes been the asst coach to a DC that has run a 3-4 scheme….whats to say he couldnt or wouldnt change to a 4-3… my view is its a change needs to be made..
by OR69faithfull on Jan 29, 2012 10:59 PM EST up reply actions
Why do the Steelers have to switch to a 4-3?
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
not that i need to explain to you frank
if you really want to know why no reply, because i specifically asked the post replier to not reply to my posts any longer, and i certainly have no interest in his posts, and wont be reading them, because I find everything he posts nonsense, and my time and purpose for visiting this site is for my enjoyment, not anothers satisfaction in bumping heads….
by OR69faithfull on Jan 30, 2012 7:46 AM EST up reply actions
Are you still whining? Grow up.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
really dont handle rejection well do you
i find most everything you post completely uninsightful…..
enjoy debating your pointless posts with yourself, as I wont be entertaining you…
by OR69faithfull on Jan 30, 2012 9:09 AM EST up reply actions
yet you keep replying.....
"Leave the gun. Bring the Canolis."
Personally I hate that. There is so much of it. It’s like that fanpost talking about moving players to positions they don’t play. I just don’t get it.
Can I get some hot sauce for my doughnut?
happens all the time, players playing different positions thru their football career
Alot of players dont only play one position their whole life. Most of these guys are versitile and are more valuable learning, knowing and playing multiple positions. Players often convert to another position from college to the nfl.
Two of the best DBs to play in a steeler uniform did that. Carnell Lake played LB and RB in high school. In college he played three years at OLB. He obviously converted in the NFL and then played saftey and corner. Rod Woodson played played DB and a variety of offensive positions in High school. In college he played RB, WR and DB. In the NFL he played corner and free safety. Hines Ward played QB in high school, Tailback, QB and WR in college. This also applies along the defensive line and offensive lines. Most guards played center and most centers played guard at one time, etc, etc
Again, you are more valuable and versitle to be able to play multiple positions. Good teams look for players that are true value picks, such as the steelers, patriots, etc.
Normal through high school and college - yes
Not so much when they get to the pros. The reason players typically change position from college to the pros, is because they don’t have prototypical size to play the position at the next level. Their are plenty of 210 LB’s at the college level, but if those guys want to play in the NFL, they need to move to a position where they can utilize the set of skills they developed in college, but is a better match for their size. The best example is an undersized LB moving to SS, because the role of a SS isn’t that much different from an inside backer.
The Steelers would have to overhaul their roster to convert to a 43 defense. Where would Woodley play? He doesn’t have the size to be an elite 43 DE, and his skill set isn’t suited to playing as a Mike in a 4-3. Same goes for Heyward. He’s not explosive enough to be a DE in a 4 man front, but he also isn’t over suited to move inside to DT. Sure, these guys could man those positions, but their level of play isn’t going to match where they were drafted, or their pay checks.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 30, 2012 2:03 PM EST up reply actions
great points, but I wasnt stating about players playing different positions
to justify moving everyone to play a 4-3. Just stating SOME circumstances of players moving around. Some people on here make statements that you cant move players AT ALL. Example; maybe moving someone like Pouncey to guard. That was my intent, to show that versitilty is something that is a common thing and its not out of the question to see players move around in their careers. NOT to move Troy to ILB, move Heyward to NT, move Timmons and Woodley to DT.
Again, I didnt make any reference to do this to play a 4-3 defense.
Butler and the 3-4
Spent 10 years as a LB playing in the 3-4
Coached the 3-4 in college
12 years in the NFL coaching in a 3-4 scheme
His entire professional career has been tied to a 3-4 defense.
What is your rationale for changing to 4-3?
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 11:42 PM EST up reply actions
In answer greig
recent rules changes favoring the offense in my view has clearly league wide show the 4-3 base defense is much better suited to hold the edge over 4-5 rec. sets….
I also think, (ravens as example) putting 3 DL and 1 linebacker in standard rush is a mismatch for larger offensive lines, – another trend in the nfl – and out rushing defense has suffered…. thats my view, and I could give some pretty good front fours that apply pressure on the QB every down to support that view….
by OR69faithfull on Jan 30, 2012 7:52 AM EST up reply actions
Not really
If that was the case, then why are more and more college programs moving in the direction of the 3-4 defense? The spread offense is much more prevalent in college, than in the NFL, and teams are finding that the best way to match up against the pass is to go to a 3-4.
What is more likely, is that teams will move towards a hybrid 34 defense, similar to what the Ravens and Texans use. This provides ultimate flexibility to defend against the run and pass, and allows teams the ability to adjust to what the opposing offense is doing.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 30, 2012 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
In other news
I think antonio brown could be a corner back for us lol.
#probowl.
I love the Steelers.
is there anything that guy can not do
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 10:41 PM EST up reply actions
Perhaps if he actually TRIED to cover him…
by Neal Coolong on Jan 29, 2012 11:00 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
what kubiak doesnt know is that he may actually be scouting a player for us...
but can Brown play guard?
let him laugh
the guy only got the job because he was friends with the HC and guess what everyone is assuming luck is going to be great QB like brady or manning, he could be a ryan leaf. BA could not adjust a game plan for his life.
Pitt needs to be able to run the ball sometimes to control the clock so the defense BA was never going to that. He kept calling deep passes when they were not working or the conditions were not good for it. Now being in a dome will mask it but when they leave it will come back to haunt him.
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 29, 2012 11:13 PM EST up reply actions
Don't see the run game getting any better
if the Steelers end up hiring Caldwell. The Colts rush offense consistently ranked in the bottom half of the league during Caldwell’s tenure as OC and head coach.
by Greig Clawson on Jan 29, 2012 11:36 PM EST up reply actions
Caldwell is going to coach Ravens QB Joe Flacco
so we lucked at that
by steeler_in_maryland on Jan 30, 2012 7:30 AM EST up reply actions
not for DC but...
rod woodson was let go at oakland, would be awesome to get him into our coaching system on whatever defensive coach might be available?
would be great to get Rod Woodson back in Pittsburgh
Just put a post on players playing multiple postions and two of the great DB’s to play in a steeler uniform.
He was given permission to interview with Colts. Id rather keep Butler and move LeBeau to a consultant. The Dline coach is the asst head coach.
by jollyrob68 on Jan 30, 2012 2:53 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
FFS
Now we are screwed if LeBeau retires…
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
According to Jim Wexell
jimwexell James C Wexell
LeBeau has no plans of retiring anytime soon. “They’ll have to throw me out of here,” he said 2 wks ago.
23 hours ago
Though “retire” seems to have a different meaning around the organization now adays.
by Tim Mullhaupt (HSS) on Jan 30, 2012 10:49 AM EST up reply actions
lol
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Jan 30, 2012 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
Or not.
It appears Butler has decided to remain with the Steelers.
Apologies if someone else beat me to it in another thread.
Those who can...do.
Those who can't... post on message boards using a screen name boasting the name of those who can.
by Craig Sager's Wardrobe on Jan 30, 2012 8:23 PM EST reply actions
cool
thank you art
by Steeler Nation VA on Jan 30, 2012 8:25 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
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