Steelers' New Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith Ready for the Challenge of Building an Effective Offense Around QB Kenny Pickett
ICARO Media Group
In an effort to revamp their struggling offense, the Pittsburgh Steelers have hired Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Smith, who previously served as the Atlanta Falcons' head coach from 2021 through 2023, brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record to the table.
One of Smith's main priorities will be getting to know quarterback Kenny Pickett. While there is no guarantee that Pickett will be handed the starting job in 2024, Smith seems to have high expectations for the 2022 first-round pick. In an interview with Missi Matthews of Steelers.com, Smith emphasized the importance of building a strong relationship between the play caller and the quarterback.
"There's a relationship that's got to be built between me and Kenny. That's so paramount between the play caller and the quarterback," Smith said.
Having previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans in 2019 and 2020, Smith is well-versed in the art of developing an effective offense. He believes that his coaching style aligns perfectly with head coach Mike Tomlin's vision for the team.
"There's a certain identity we want to have," Smith stated. "Any offense I've been a part of, it's going to be physical. We want to win on the line of scrimmage, and it's also about playing to our strengths, creating explosive plays. We want to have a very smart unit."
However, Pickett has yet to fully prove himself as the quarterback capable of leading a successful offense. Following a disappointing 2023 season for the Steelers' offense, Smith faces a significant challenge in turning the unit around and instilling the confidence needed to execute his vision.
With Smith's arrival, there is renewed hope that the Steelers offense will undergo a revival in the coming seasons. As Smith familiarizes himself with Pickett's playing style and strengths, the team looks forward to a more dynamic and productive offensive approach. Only time will tell if Smith can work his magic and turn the Steelers into a formidable force once again.