Steelers linebackers coach, and presumptive defensive coordinator of the future, has turned down an interview with the Indianapolis Colts for that position, and will remain with the Steelers as the linebackers coach this upcoming season, according to our Behind The Steel Curtain blog. Butler has an interesting position in the coaching staff, and as a result, his decision to stay raises some interesting questions.
Butler received a handshake agreement with the organization in 2009 to become the team's defensive coordinator when he turned down an offer from then coach Tony Sporano to become Miami's defensive coordinator. That handshake must have been renewed, and likely with it, a raise.
The Steelers might be looking at a vastly different defense next year than the one they sent out for Week 1 this year, not for lack of production, but rather for age and injury concerns. While Butler's performance with the linebackers has come under some scrutiny, any continuity the organization can keep on that side of the ball will probably be beneficial.
For more on this retention and all things Pittsburgh Steelers football, please head over to the aforementioned Behind The Steel Curtain.