The Steelers won’t be losing one of the most important members of their coaching staff. Offensive line coach Mike Munchak is staying with the Steelers after turning down a second interview with Arizona to become the next head coach of the Cardinals.
“I made the decision to withdraw my name from the Arizona Cardinals head coaching search as they continue through their interview process. The timing for my family was not appropriate for me to pursue this potential opportunity, but I am very excited with the decision to remain with the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
Munchak, who has been with the Steelers since 2014, previously was the head coach of the Tennessee Titans from 2011-13. He was the offensive line coach with the Titans; before that he had a Hall of Fame playing career.
Munchak has overseen the development of one of the top offensive lines in the NFL. He has coached two All-Pros in center Maurkice Pouncey and right guard David DeCastro and developed Alejandro Villanueva, a converted defensive lineman, into a starting left tackle.
Under Munchak’s watch, the Steelers have kept Ben Roethlisberger well-protected. The Steelers have allowed just 45 sacks over the past two seasons, including 24 this past season.
The line also has paved the way for running back Le’Veon Bell, who rushed for 1,291 yards to finish third in the NFL in rushing.
Munchak played in the NFL from 1982-93. He was first- or second-team All-Pro in 10 of his 12 NFL seasons and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.
Ray Fittipaldo: rfittipaldo@post-gazette.com and Twitter @rayfitt1.
First Published: January 17, 2018, 10:20 p.m.