In the early season, hopes were high that LeGarrette Blount and Le’Veon Bell would provide the Steelers with a high-powered running game; something that had been lacking in recent years. Unfortunately, those hopes were dashed less than 24 hours after Blount walked off the field before Monday night’s game in Tennessee had ended. The Steelers wasted no time in permanently relieving him of his duties.
Blount’s release has ignited a controversy, with some fans in total agreement with the decision and others wondering what affect the release will have on the remainder of the season. With Blount gone, the running game is left in the hands of the ever-capable Bell. Dri Archer and Josh Harris, signed from the practice squad following Blount’s release, will also be available for duty when needed.
There is no doubt that the potential for Blount to make a positive contribution to Pittsburgh’s offense was great. In his 11 games with the Steelers, he rushed for 266 yards and scored two touchdowns. Yet, there were numerous detractors, the most obvious being his dissatisfaction with the role the Steelers had given him. His talent was overshadowed by his want to do more and his inability to deal with his limited use in a classy, professional manner. That is a choice he made, and he must now deal with the consequences.
Blount could have chosen to control his emotions and channel his anger toward working harder and improving skills that were already stellar. He could have chosen to practice harder, play his heart out, evoke his style and prove to the coaches and the fans that he was there for the team and not just himself. Instead, he threw a temper tantrum and walked away.
There is nothing wrong with a professional athlete believing he is the best and wanting to showcase his skills, but inside, they must also have maturity and humility. It is imperative to achieving true success and gaining the respect of peers and the fan base. Regardless of Blount’s talent, it was severely diminished by poor attitude that became venomous to the team as a whole. This is something the Steelers could ill-afford at such a critical time in the season.
As disturbing and unfortunate the situation may be, it can also serve as an example for the league and fans during a time when the world of sports has seemingly gone crazy. If you want to become a champion, act like one. Check your ego at the door, prepare to make sacrifices and commit to being the best that you can be. Model yourself after the great athletes who have preceded you, refuse to concede to negative emotions and accept the role bestowed upon you with grace.
Blount, unfortunately, could not accept the role he had been assigned, but to dwell on his departure will only continue to serve as a distraction. The Steelers organization must forge ahead and focus on the final six weeks of the season. Any disruption Blount may have caused is now in the past and no longer a factor, and fans of the black and gold can only hope this will rejuvenate their team and shine a light on the pathway that leads to success.
