Steelers’ Jerome Bettis’ Son Makes It Clear He Wants To Be Very Different From His Father: 'I’m My Own Man'

In a recent interview with ESPN, Bettis Jr. shared his admiration and love for his father, while expressing his desire to forge his own identity and pursue his own unique journey.

"One of the biggest things was changing my number, and so me really getting my number away from his, that was a big step for me, realizing that at the end of the day, I'm my own man. I love my dad and I love everything that I guess comes with him being my father, but at the same time, I create my own legacy and my own journey."

During his junior year at the academy, Bettis Jr. donned the number four, a departure from his father's legendary number 36 worn throughout his career in Pittsburgh. Opting not to follow in his father's footsteps, Bettis Jr. chose to forge his own path, symbolizing his determination to carve out his unique destiny. 

Bettis Jr. detailed how while being recruited by the Irish, they made it clear they wanted him because of his talents, not his father. 

"They made sure super early on that it was known they recruited me for me and not my father. They wanted me to know that they want Jerome Bettis Jr. at Notre Dame because of what he can bring, not just because of what comes along with me and my name. That's something that was really important to me, because I wasn't sure how they viewed me and my dad and the entire situation, so for them to reassure me was great."

Bettis Jr.'s decision to attend his father's alma mater initially sparked concern, as he was eager to establish his own legacy. Despite receiving offers from esteemed institutions like Texas A&M, Ole Miss and California, Bettis Jr. faced a dilemma. However, after thoughtful discussions with his father, he found clarity and made a confident choice.

"I viewed the pros and cons and took it to my father and asked him what he thought about it and his thoughts on me making the decision. First, he wanted to make sure I was completely certain and after that, he was super happy. Just the initial reaction from him and the joy I could see on his face, that was something super special for me to witness."

Bettis Jr. is stoked to make his mark at the next level. In his previous season at the academy, he showcased his talent with 30 receptions, amassing 369 receiving yards, and scoring four touchdowns. As he gears up for another standout season, Bettis Jr. remains focused on making the most of his time before embarking on his college journey at his father's alma mater.

Steelers’ Jerome Bettis Is An Icon In Pittsburgh

Bettis Jr.'s father carries an illustrious legacy, one that casts a shadow over the name his son must now uphold. This reality, for better or for worse, weighs heavily on both father and son. Initially, Bettis Jr. harbored concerns that his association with his father's renowned name might overshadow his own abilities. However, he found solace in the reassurance from the Irish, who affirmed their genuine interest in his talent, independent of his familial ties.

Bettis Sr. solidified his place in football history through his iconic career with the Steelers. Over 10 seasons, he amassed an impressive 10,571 rushing yards and 78 total touchdowns, boasting a notable average of 3.9 yards per carry. His achievements culminated in his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the 2015 class. With six Pro Bowl appearances, two All-Pro selections, and a Super Bowl championship to his name, Bettis Sr. left an indelible mark on the sport.

As Bettis Jr. embarks on his college journey, Steelers fans eagerly await his performance on the field. His progress at the collegiate level could potentially pique the interest of his father's former NFL team. Regardless of what the future holds, the narrative of a former Steelers legend's son carving his own path in football adds an intriguing dimension to the sport.