With Todd Bowles Out Could Dick LeBeau Be Next For The Arizona Cardinals?
By Tony Fischer
When the news broke last night that Todd Bowles is leaving to become the head coach of the New York Jets, fans were left wondering how in the world they would replace their defensive coordinator in 2015.
Just as the Arizona Cardinals have been lucky at times when dealing with this seasons adversity, they could get lucky again when replacing Bowles.
In a surprising turn of events, Hall of Famer Dick LeBeau announced he was leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers. Reportedly LeBeau thought it was time to move on with pending turnover on the defense. LeBeau did not announce his retirement when he was leaving the Steelers which technically makes him a free agent.
If Todd Bowles leave #AZCardinals as DC, which seems likely, one strong option for coach Bruce Arians is Dick LeBeau. Imagine that addition
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 13, 2015
So would LeBeau be a good fit for the Cardinals?
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Arians is certainly familiar with LeBeau. He served with him on the Pittsburgh Steelers as their offensive coordinator from 2007 to 2011 before leaving to coach the Indianapolis Colts.
If LeBeau is looking for a familiar and comfortable place to finish his coaching career, Arizona might be the place. His familiarity with Arians and the warm Arizona Sun might be two of the factors put the Cardinals over the top as LeBeau’s next stop.
If the Cardinals want LeBeau though, they will have some competition. Since LeBeau’s abrupt exit from Pittsburgh, possible suitors are emerging everyday.
The Detroit Lions, who may also lose their defensive coordinator to a head coaching vacancy, may make a play for the former Pittsburgh DC. LeBeau started his NFL Career with the Lions and had a hall of fame career nabbing 62 interceptions over 14 seasons. A return to Detroit could be a poetic end to a long and successful coaching career.
For all the latest on Arizona Cardinals and their search for a new defensive coordinator, stay connected to HeatWaved.