Steelers president Art Rooney conducted numerous interviews with various media groups last week, many of which you might have read. This is one where you can actually hear what Rooney had to say and some of it is interesting and informative.
Bob Labriola, the editor of Steelers Digest, interviewed Rooney on Steelers.com and it provides a new twist to the firing/retirement/dismissal of offensive coordinator Bruce Arians.
It was first announced, amid some suspicion, that Arians retired. In a story in the York Daily Record, Arians suggested he had no choice but to retire when a new contract was not offered.
Rooneys explanation in this interview sheds new light on Arians departure, but hardly clears the air. This is part of what Rooney had to say:
“Bruce talked about retiring for a number of years now. 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.”
This makes it clear that the decision was Rooneys. Whether it had to do with dissatisfaction with Arians or the fact Arians could not give the team a long-term commitment is hard to tell. It could be a combination of both.
Part one of the Rooney interview with Bob Labriola.
Part two of the Rooney interview with Labriola.
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