Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher has commented on the team’s reported verbal agreement with Mike McCarthy to become their next head coach. Speaking on CBS’s NFL Today, Cowher expressed support for the decision, emphasizing McCarthy’s offensive background.
“I know that Art Rooney, Omar (Khan) did that, and also Dan (Rooney) sat there, and they did a very diligent look at what was out there,” said Cowher. “They did a lot of interviews. But also looked at their football team.
“And I really like this hire for this reason. Number one, he is an offensive minded guy. Everywhere he’s been. He grew up under (Coach) Marty Schottenheimer, so he understands the value of running the football. He coached Joe Montana, he coached Brett Favre, he coached Aaron Rodgers, he coached Dak Prescott.
“Everywhere he has been he has uplifted the offense.
“If you look at the Pittsburgh Steelers right now, if there’s been inconsistencies in the recent years, it’s been the instability of having a reliable offense. They’ve got defensive guys that can sack the quarterback, they can create turnovers.
“So, I like where they’re at.
“He also walks into that room with credibility. So, I like what they did. He’ll put together a good staff.”
Cowher also highlighted McCarthy’s local ties as an advantage for his new role in Pittsburgh.
“And, oh yeah, he’s from Pittsburgh too,” said Cowher. “That doesn’t make it bad. He knows the tradition. He knows what the expectation is. He knows what that fan base is all about. He’s a Yinzer.
“I think it’s a very good hire for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
