Seems like there’s been more controversy about OC Bruce Arians not coming back with the Steelers, you really don’t know who to believe anymore. The Steelers (more so Art Rooney II) clearly at this point appears to have taken it upon himself to make the decision to get rid of Arians, but doesn’t seem ready to admit it.
Today, Bob Labriola on Steelers.com did an interview with Rooney II, and asked him point blank about the Arians situation, and if he anything to do with Arians not coming back.
“Bruce talked about retiring for a number of years now,” Rooney said. “We are looking to improve on offense and to have somebody in place for a number of years. I think it was time for a change. We are looking forward to moving on.”
Ok, but did you make the decision to fire him? Clearly that answer doesn’t give the whole story.
Arians said he had no choice but to retire after the team did not offer him a contract to come back for next season. He’s already talking to other teams, meaning that he still wants to coach in the NFL.
Rooney seemed to not want to answer how the process of Arians not being around played out. He basically said in so many words that it doesn’t matter how Arians ended up not being the Steelers OC anymore.
“The question of how we got here is not really relevant,” Rooney said. “The key now is that Mike (Tomlin) has begun the search for our next offensive coordinator. We will go through the process and interview the right candidates.”
The Steelers offense finished 12th in total offense (372.3 yards per game) and 21st in points per game (20.3) last year.
I’m not a fan of Rooney II getting too involved with this team. His dad and Dan Rooney never did, and I don’t think it really needs to change now. If Rooney fired him, he fired him – just admit it and let’s move on.
Source: Steelers Gab
