Around the NFL

Dick LeBeau's resignation caught Steelers by surprise

Published: Jan 11, 2015 at 02:43 AM

Marc Sessler

Dick LeBeau has left the Steel City, but could the defensive wizard wind up coaching elsewhere next season?

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on NFL GameDay Morning that LeBeau's resignation caught the Steelers by surprise, per sources involved in the situation.

While some in the organization were clear that LeBeau could stay as long as he wanted, the longtime coach thought it was time to go, Rapoport was told. It's believed that LeBeau, 77, wanted to depart alongside veterans such as cornerback Ike Taylor and safety Troy Polamalu, who are unlikely to be back with Pittsburgh in 2015.

The logical heir apparent for LeBeau is Keith Butler, who the Titans tried to hire away last offseason. The Steelers blocked the move, perhaps paving the way for Butler -- the team's long-tenured linebackers coach -- to take over Pittsburgh's coordinating duties.

As for LeBeau, his future remains in question. Rapoport noted that both the Titans and Cardinals have emerged as the most likely landing spots if the coach takes another job. With connections to Bruce Arians in Arizona and Ken Whisenhunt in Tennessee, a consulting gig -- if not a coaching role -- looms as the potential next step for the celebrated defensive play-caller.

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