Steelers' OC hire proves team is still stuck in the past

One of the most important decisions the Steelers had to make this offseason was picking a new offensive coordinator, but their choice proves the team is still stuck in the past.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Pittsburgh is expected to hire former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith as its new OC.

Smith was fired earlier this month after an underwhelming three-year run in Atlanta where he went 21-30 and failed to ever make the playoffs.

In 2023, the Falcons had the 26th-ranked scoring offense (18.9). The Steelers had the 28th-ranked (17.9).

Pittsburgh isn't hiring Smith based on his stint with Atlanta, however. The 41-year-old was the Titans offensive coordinator from 2019-21 which included a trip to the AFC Championship game.

Tennessee's offensive success revolved around running back Derrick Henry, who rushed for 4,504 yards and 43 touchdowns during the span.

Only time will tell whether that was more a product of Smith's offense or Henry's. But one thing is for sure, the Titans' ceiling was limited with a heavy focus on the run.

The Steelers are clearly not interested in developing into the "modern" NFL offense yet with the hiring of Smith.

President Art Rooney II told reporters on Monday that the team was looking for someone with "a fresh approach." But the main thing head coach Mike Tomlin was focused on was a play-calling experience.

Smith is a good fit in that aspect, but QB Kenny Pickett's development must be the main focus or Pittsburgh will miss the playoffs or be one-and-down for the eighth straight year in 2024.

If it's any consolation for fans, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport did say several other teams were interested in Smith.

"He had a lot of opportunities. He was going to be an OC somewhere," Rapoport said. "Culturally, this makes a lot of sense."