It appears James Harrison didn’t part with the Pittsburgh Steelers on the best of terms.
Harrison, who spent parts of 14 seasons in Pittsburgh, was released by the Steelers over the weekend after appearing in only five games and 40 total snaps this season. It didn’t take Harrison long to find a new home, though, as the veteran linebacker signed with the New England Patriots on Tuesday.
Speaking with the media Wednesday, Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey didn’t mince words when speaking about his now-former teammate. According to Pouncey, Harrison wanted out of the Steel City, contrary to any reports that indicated otherwise.
The 39-year-old owns the Steelers’ franchise career sack record and also won two Super Bowls during his tenure with the Black and Yellow. However, Pouncey believes all of the accolades and honors Harrison amassed in Pittsburgh will be tarnished due to his departure.
Pouncey and the Steelers might not care that Harrison wanted to relocate, but there’s a good chance they will see their old teammate in the near future. Pittsburgh and New England are on a fast track to meet in the AFC Championship Game, which would allow for a rather tension-filled reunion between the two sides.
Not everyone in the Pittsburgh locker room was as blunt, however. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger struck a more diplomatic tone when he was asked about Harrison joining the Steelers’ rival.
