The end of Todd Haley’s tenure as offensive coordinator of the Pittsburgh Steelers did not go smoothly. On Wednesday, Haley, now the offensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns, spoke on his relationship with Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers.
Haley generally took the high road when talking about his former team.
New #Browns OC Todd Haley on reported clashes with Big Ben leading to exit: I don't have a lot to say about it. Coaches' job is to develop players first & foremost & that's how I go about business. I have nothing but fond memories. It was time for me to move on to a new challenge
— Nate Ulrich (@ByNateUlrich) February 14, 2018
Haley was Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator from 2012-2017. During his time in that role, the Steelers generally had one of the NFL’s best offenses. The 2017 season was no different, with Pittsburgh ranking third in total yards and eighth in points.
But his relationship with both the Steelers and their quarterback eroded towards the end of the season. Off the field, Haley was involved in a bar altercation. On the field, his relationship with Roethlisberger deteriorated to a point where the quarterback reportedly requested a buffer between himself and Haley.
Haley was ultimately replaced in Pittsburgh by former quarterbacks coach Randy Fichtner. He will serve as the Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator in 2018.