How the Steelers got better by hiring Brian Flores, who will continue litigation against NFL

Flores said on Get Up! that they did not have to file a lawsuit for the world to know there was an issue. That was the top reason. I know there is sacrifice, but at the end of the day, we need to change.

The Pittsburgh Steelers hired Flores as a senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach.

Brian Flores has a history of developing and teaching defensive players during his time in the NFL.

This is a significant football hire for the two teams. It isn't often that a team hires someone with experience and head-coaching credentials for an assistant position below the coordinators.

Flores was available because he didn't get hired by any of the four teams he interviewed with for a head coaching position.

While he has litigation pending against the league, the Steelers ensured that Flores will be on an NFL staff while he is. Flores has been a head coach and led the Dolphins to an 8-1 finish after a 1-7 start, he also coached the New England defense for three seasons and called plays in the Super Bowl.

Flores isn't expected to be the play caller in Pittsburgh, even though he has a lot of experience. Teryl Austin was the senior defensive assistant and secondary coach. The second has not been officially announced, but Tomlin will likely continue his defensive playcalling duties.

He is a premier coach who had a good defense in Miami, according to the player.

To avoid a complete rebuild in the wake of Ben Roethlisberger's retirement, the Steelers need a strong offseason. The first step in achieving that is filling coaching vacancies with respected heavy-hitters like Flores.

After finishing last in the league in rushing defense last season, the Steelers got a veteran leader in the form of Flores, who will give the defense a fresh set of ideas. The addition should help the development of the former top 10 pick, who had a disappointing season after an injury. Flores gets a position at one of the NFL's flagship organizations, one that has been a champion of diversity in the league, in a role in which he has been a proven winner.

The attorneys for Flores said they were happy for him and thanked the organization for giving him the opportunity.