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Steelers' Dick LeBeau plans to return

A return would mark a 55th-straight NFL season for the legend LeBeau.

David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau plans to return in 2013 for a tenth season as the team's defensive coordinator. The coaching legend told the Steelers' defense of his plans during the team's first meetings this week.

A return, which LeBeau says is ultimately up to head coach Mike Tomlin, would be his 55th straight season in the NFL after being drafted as a player by the Cleveland Browns in 1959.

If 2012 is any indication, LeBeau, who would turn 76 at next season's open, is still as good as ever. The Steelers have the NFL's No. 1 defense by allowing just 273 yards per game, a good 24 yards per game better than second place.

Pittsburgh has won two Super Bowls since LeBeau became the team's defensive coordinator in 2004, the organization's first championships since 1980. In 10 of his 11 seasons as Pittsburgh's head defensive man (he also held the position in 1995-96), the Steelers have finished with a top-five defense.

The Steelers finish the regular season Sunday by hosting the Browns.

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Photographs by dizfunk used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.