After weeks of speculation, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has decided who will run his offense in the upcoming season. Insiders from NFL network have reported that former Atlanta Falcons’ coach Arthur Smith will be the guy. And when I say run the offense, I mean RUN. Detested by the fantasy community, Smith has garnered attention for his recent tenure in Atlanta for not utilizing rookie RB Bijan Robinson on the goal line and not scheming things for his Round 1 TE star, Kyle Pitts. Despite these concerns among fantasy managers, Smith might be a suitable choice for the Steelers, particularly given their inclination towards a run-first, smash-mouth style of play. Smith successfully built a team around a robust running game during his time with the Titans. Most notably with Derrick Henry, who enjoyed two of his best seasons under Smith’s guidance.
The Steelers face evident challenges at the quarterback position. Kenny Pickett was benched for third-stringer Mason Rudolph in the playoffs, even after recovering from an ankle injury. The offensive line needs serious improvements as well. These issues, however, should be addressed in free agency. There is still the possibility of a veteran quarterback signing like Ryan Tannehill or Russell Wilson and bolstering the offensive line through the draft. I’m also excited to see who they bring in as quarterback coach. Another important hire I am closely monitoring.
I know Steelers fans wanted someone young and up-and-coming to take over the offense, preferably with a specialty in the passing game; however, the Steelers decided to go a safer route and expanded on what they were already doing well. Until the team addresses its current challenges and evolves offensively in the passing game, the decision to bring in Smith appears to be a strategic move in line with the Steelers’ capabilities for the upcoming season.
