The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Saturday night that defensive coordinator Keith Butler will no longer coach in Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens due to his continuing with the league’s COVID protocols. Spokesperson Bert Lawten shared the news moments ago.

In his place, Mike Tomlin and his defensive assistant Terrell Austin will co-star as Butler.

# bubbles Defensive coordinator Keith Butler will not be coach tomorrow against # crows Because of COVID-19 protocols. His duties will be handled by Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Assistant Defense First/Secondary Coach Terrell Austin.

– Bert Lawton (@SteelersPRBurt) January 8, 2022

Butler was announced in COVID Protocols on Wednesday. It is clear that he will not be acquitted in time for training.

Speaking earlier this week, Tomlin said he was “certainly” able to take on the duties of Butler. It is widely believed that Tomlin’s defense footprint has expanded over the years and that he acts as a de facto defense coordinator, although the exact division of labor between him and Butler is not fully known.

He also mentions Lauten’s tweet. Terrell Austin will also take on some of Butler’s roles. Austin was a defensive coordinator for several years, including with the Detroit Lions from 2014 to 2017 and with the Cincinnati Bengals for part of the 2018 season.

The Steelers, a native of Pittsburgh, rented Austin in 2019. He has primarily worked with high school and also helps Tomlin with game day decisions like tough calls. Austin usually operates from the cab. It is not clear if he will stay upstairs for tomorrow’s game or make his way to the sidelines.

Butler, 65, has signed a one-year deal with the Steelers to return to DC for the 2021 season. His future with the team is in question.