Or he was allowed to hire him with the trust that steele could be a stabilizer if Pruitt was fired. I could see that. Steele could step in if Pruitt is gone and at least try to hold it together until another coach could be hired.
I think that's what this is. Defensive assistant and also a contingency plan so that the university isnt left high and dry if Pruitt is found at fault and fired. They realize they may have to wait longer to fire him and want someone who will be there regardless. I actually think this is good move. They can say that Pruitt hired him. But I think that theres a plan here.