The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant shift this offseason by bringing Arthur Smith on board as their new offensive coordinator.
Known for his tenure as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons and the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, Smith’s approach to the game is expected to mesh well with the Steelers’ traditional style. With an emphasis on a robust running game, Smith’s system could potentially revitalize Pittsburgh’s offense, given the right mix of players.
Pittsburgh’s front office, led by Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin, has shown great faith in Smith’s strategy.
This trust has manifested in the acquisition of players familiar with Smith’s playbook, including newcomers like Cordarrelle Patterson, Van Jefferson, MyCole Pruitt, and most recently, Scotty Miller. However, while these additions strengthen the roster, they have also spotlighted a glaring void: the lack of a high-caliber wide receiver who can effectively complement the talents of standout George Pickens.
Analyzing Pittsburgh Steelers’ Acquisitions Of Arthur Smith
Scotty Miller’s signing has been met with mixed feelings. While Miller is a competent player, his role is expected to be limited, primarily due to his lackluster performance as an outside threat since his 2020 season with Tom Brady. The absence of a quarterback of Brady’s caliber in Pittsburgh only accentuates this issue.
The Steelers‘ strategy seems focused on bolstering their ground game, with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren expected to carry the load. This approach aligns with Pittsburgh’s historical emphasis on ball control and a stout defense. However, the departure of Diontae Johnson leaves a significant gap, and despite trade talks involving players like Brandon Aiyuk, the Steelers have been hesitant to meet the high trade demands.
A Critical Gap in the Offense
The central challenge for the Steelers remains clear: identifying a reliable second wide receiver to line up opposite Pickens. None of the current roster additions, including Roman Wilson, Jefferson, Patterson, or Miller, seem ready to fill this role effectively. This oversight could prove costly, especially in high-stakes games where a balanced offensive strategy is crucial.
The decision to rely on Smith’s former players makes strategic sense, as it should ease the transition to a new offensive scheme. However, it doesn’t solve the problem of providing adequate targets for their quarterbacks, which is essential in today’s pass-heavy NFL.
As 2024 unfolds, the Steelers may find themselves at a crossroads. While their commitment to a run-heavy offense is clear, the modern NFL demands a more dynamic aerial attack. Without addressing this critical need, Pittsburgh risks not only the efficacy of their current strategy but also the potential of their promising talents like Pickens and their quarterbacks, who are left without the necessary tools to succeed.
How Much Autonomy Does Arthur Smith Have in #Steelers Offense? https://t.co/PB8Kyg76U6
— Steelers Now (@PghSteelersNow) May 10, 2024
While Arthur Smith’s reunion with former players brings familiarity and a clear direction, the Pittsburgh Steelers must address their underwhelming wide receiver corps to fully capitalize on their offensive potential.
The absence of a strong WR2 could hinder their ability to compete effectively in a league that increasingly favors well-rounded, explosive offenses. For Pittsburgh, the time to act is now, as the window to optimize their roster around their strategic preferences won’t remain open forever.
