SouthernWorldwide.com – Pittsburgh Steelers legend Jerome Bettis has expressed his excitement following the team’s recent head coaching hire, Mike McCarthy. This marks the first time since 2007 that the Steelers have brought in a new head coach.
Mike Tomlin concluded his 19-year tenure as head coach, a period that saw him lead the team to a Super Bowl victory and maintain a non-losing season throughout his time with the franchise. Bettis acknowledges the significant shoes Tomlin leaves to fill and is enthusiastic about what McCarthy brings to the organization.
McCarthy previously served as the head coach for the Green Bay Packers in 2011. During that season, his team, with Aaron Rodgers as quarterback, defeated the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. Now, more than a decade and a half later, McCarthy is embarking on a new chapter as the Steelers’ head coach, with Rodgers once again set to be his quarterback.
“We are excited for him to begin this next chapter for the Steelers organization from a leadership standpoint. I believe there is a great deal of anticipation for what he brings to the table,” Bettis stated.
Bettis reflected on Tomlin’s time as head coach, describing it as a “hell of a run.” He mentioned that he understood the possibility of Tomlin stepping down existed, largely due to the considerable length of his tenure.
“I was surprised, but at the same time, I wasn’t. He had been there for 19 years. That’s quite a remarkable run considering the timeframe. So, you knew he had invested a significant amount of time with the organization. It’s never an easy time to step away. Therefore, it was surprising in the sense that no one anticipated it,” Bettis commented.
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“I certainly didn’t expect it to happen, but I was aware that the possibility always exists when you’ve been with an organization for 19 to 20 years.”
Bettis conveyed his gratitude for Tomlin’s contributions to the organization.
Jerome Bettis is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished running backs in Steelers history. Affectionately nicknamed “The Bus,” Bettis has earned a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
During his 13 seasons in the NFL, with the last 10 spent with the Steelers, Bettis accumulated 13,662 rushing yards and scored 91 touchdowns. He also recorded 200 receptions for 1,449 yards and three touchdowns. Bettis was a crucial player in the Steelers’ Super Bowl XL triumph over the Seattle Seahawks, notably scoring three touchdowns during their playoff run.
Looking ahead, Bettis is scheduled to participate in the American Century Tournament. The event will take place from July 10-12 at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe. Viewers can catch the tournament’s broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
