PITTSBURGH (PTTP) – The Pittsburgh Steelers announced the hiring of Arthur Smith as their
new Offensive Coordinator, following an extensive search that included several noteworthy
candidates. Smith takes over from Matt Canada, who was recently let go by the organization.
The Steelers evaluated a diverse group of candidates, including Klint Kubiak, San Francisco
49ers Passing Game Coordinator; Jerrod Johnson, Houston Texas Quarterback (QB) Coach; Kliff Kingsbury,
University of Southern California Senior Offensive Assistant; Thomas Brown, former Carolina Panthers Offensive Coordinator; and Zac Robinson, Los Angeles Rams QB Coach, before settling on Smith.
The new appointment has sparked discussions about the future of the team’s roster, particularly
regarding running back Najee Harris. Harris, who showed a slowdown in performance compared
to his earlier seasons, is now contrasted with the rise of his peer, Jaylen Warren. Both players, at
25, are in their physical prime. However, Warren’s increased quickness and explosiveness have
led to speculations about Harris’s future with the team, especially with the impending decision
on Harris’s 5th-year option.
Coach Mike Tomlin remained optimistic about the team’s future during his season-ending press
briefing. However, he acknowledged the challenges ahead, with the Steelers facing deficiencies
in key positions, including quarterback, wide receiver, secondary, and defensive line.
With the American Football Conference’s (AFC) North’s competitive landscape, the Steelers are perceived to be lagging in terms of roster strength. The situation places additional pressure on Tomlin, whose tenure with the team, despite being confirmed for 2024, faces scrutiny from fans eager for success.
The quarterback position particularly remains a contentious point for the Steelers. Kenny Pickett,
the former first-round pick from the University of Pittsburgh, has yet to meet the high
expectations set for him. Pickett’s performance is crucial, especially considering the division’s
defensive prowess. Meanwhile, Mason Rudolph, a free agent, is in talks to return to the team
after impressing late in the season.
As the Steelers navigate these roster decisions, the focus remains on building a team capable of
contending for the Super Bowl and reclaiming dominance in the AFC North.