The Pittsburgh Steelers have their offensive architect, but the dance for their starting quarterback continues. Enter Arthur Smith, the newly appointed offensive coordinator tasked with igniting the Steel Curtain attack.
His arrival raises a key question: will Ryan Tannehill, a familiar face from his Tennessee days, join the Steelers’ QB huddle?
Smith’s hiring sends ripples through the NFL landscape. His run-heavy offensive philosophy, which proved wildly successful with Derrick Henry in Tennessee, could be a perfect fit for Pittsburgh’s dominant rushing duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. In 2023, the pair combined for over 1,800 yards and 12 touchdowns, showcasing their potential as a ground game powerhouse.
But the real intrigue lies in the potential reunion between Smith and Tannehill. During their two-year collaboration in Tennessee (2019-2020), Tannehill experienced a career resurgence.
He tossed 55 touchdowns versus just 13 interceptions, a stark contrast to his previous inconsistent seasons. Under Smith’s guidance, Tannehill even led the Titans to an AFC Championship game appearance in 2019, earning Comeback Player of the Year honors.
Fast forward to 2023, and Tannehill’s star has dimmed. Injuries and inconsistent play led to his replacement by rookie Will Levis. Now, a free agent at 35 years old, he seems like a short-term solution at best. However, his familiarity with Smith’s system and the Steelers’ potent running game could make for a curious, potentially effective combo.
While head coach Mike Tomlin has publicly voiced support for starting Kenny Pickett in 2024, he also promised to bring in competition.
Tannehill, with his veteran experience and success under Smith, could provide the perfect push for Pickett to develop. Additionally, drafting a late-round quarterback could add further fuel to the competition, ensuring no one gets complacent.
The Steelers’ offseason is shaping up to be a fascinating chess match. Arthur Smith’s arrival sets the stage for an offensive overhaul, while the quarterback conundrum keeps everyone guessing.
Will Tannehill return to his Tennessee form in Pittsburgh? Can Pickett rise to the challenge under increased competition? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the Steel City shuffle is underway, and the NFL world is watching with bated breath.