For the first time since 2007, the Pittsburgh Steelers have hired a new head coach. Mike McCarthy steps into the role previously held by Mike Tomlin, who led the team for 19 successful years. Tomlin’s achievements include a Super Bowl win and an impressive record of never having a losing season.

Legendary Steelers running back Jerome Bettis expressed his enthusiasm for McCarthy’s appointment. ‘I think he’s definitely a fundamentals-type coach. He’s won a championship, so he’s a championship-caliber head coach. He knows what success looks like,’ Bettis shared in an interview with Fox News Digital.

McCarthy, who previously coached the Green Bay Packers, defeated the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV with Aaron Rodgers as his quarterback. Now, he embarks on a new journey with the Steelers, once again accompanied by Rodgers as their quarterback.

Bettis discussed Tomlin’s tenure, acknowledging the surprise at his departure while understanding the longevity of his leadership role. ‘He had been there 19 years. I mean that’s a hell of a run in terms of the timetable… So, it was surprising in that no one expected it,’ Bettis remarked. He appreciates the impact Tomlin had on the organization.

Bettis, known as ‘The Bus,’ is regarded as one of the greatest running backs in Steelers history. He is a Pro Football Hall of Famer with 13,662 rushing yards and 91 touchdowns in 13 NFL seasons, the last 10 with the Steelers. His contributions were pivotal in the team’s Super Bowl XL victory over the Seattle Seahawks, where he scored three touchdowns during their playoff journey.

Bettis will participate in the American Century Tournament at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe from July 10-12, scheduled for broadcast on NBC and Peacock.