Former Steelers RB And Potential Offensive Assistant Duce Staley Fired By Carolina Panthers

Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and Super Bowl XL champion, Duce Staley was fired by the Carolina Panthers on Monday morning. Staley, who served as the assistant head coach and running backs coach for the Panthers, found himself out of a job amid the team's struggles in the 2023 season. 

Staley won’t be out of a job for long and many fans of Steeler Nation are hopeful the Steelers will get him on the staff as an offensive assistant. 

Staley's journey to the Panthers was intricately tied to his relationship with Panthers Head Coach, Frank Reich. The two had previously worked together with the Philadelphia Eagles, creating a bond that led Staley to join Reich in Carolina. However, the Panthers' decision to let go of Reich after a challenging 1-10 start marked an abrupt change in the coaching landscape. Reich holds the distinction of being the shortest-tenured NFL head coach in the last 45 years.

Panthers' Rushing Struggles and Regression

One of the notable aspects of Staley's tenure with the Panthers was the team's significant regression in rushing performance. In 2022, the Panthers ranked 10th in rushing yards per game, showcasing a formidable ground attack. However, the 2023 season painted a different picture, with the Panthers plummeting to the 29th spot in rushing yards per game. The stark decline in rushing production likely played a role in the coaching shake-up. However, it appears that the Panthers were simply cleaning house and that the coaching changes may have been inevitable. 

Staley's Coaching Journey and Prospects

Despite the challenges faced in Carolina, Staley has an impressive coaching background. His previous coaching stints with the Detroit Lions and the Eagles garnered attention and contributed to his rising status among coaching prospects. While his time with the Panthers ended on a sour note, Staley remains a sought-after candidate for teams in need of offensive coaching talent.

Steelers' Two-Coaching System and Future Plans

In the wake of Matt Canada's departure as offensive coordinator for the Steelers, the team is currently navigating the remainder of the season with a two-coaching system. Eddie Faulkner has taken on the role of interim offensive coordinator, while Mike Sullivan handles play-calling duties. On Sunday, Sullivan called a great game according to Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett.

“Huge shout out to Coach Faulk and Coach Sully. I think those guys did a great job preparing us this week.”

Pickett spoke to CBS reporter Evan Washburn following the Steelers 16-10 win on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.

“Shoutout to Coach Sully, I think he called a h**l of a game.”

However, with the long-term offensive coordinator position open, the Steelers will likely explore potential candidates, including Staley.

A Potential Reunion in Pittsburgh?

Staley's ties to the Steelers go beyond just a potential coaching prospect. As a player, Staley donned the black and gold for 15 games during the 2004 and 2005 seasons. His on-field contributions included two touchdowns and an impressive 978 rushing yards on 230 carries. The possibility of a reunion in Pittsburgh, either as an offensive coordinator or a member of the coaching staff, adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing coaching discussions.

Staley's Championship Pedigree

Staley brings not only coaching experience, but also a championship pedigree to the table. He secured a Super Bowl victory with the Steelers in Super Bowl XL as a player and added another championship ring with the Eagles in Super Bowl LII as a coach.

As the coaching carousel continues to spin in the NFL, Staley's somewhat expected departure from the Panthers opens the door to potential opportunities, and Steelers fans may find themselves contemplating the prospect of a familiar face returning to the Pittsburgh sidelines.

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