The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently in the midst of an important coaching search, and one name that has recently surfaced in connection with the team is former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith. Smith, who struggled during his tenure with the Falcons, has an intriguing history as an offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans.
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The Steelers interviewed former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith for their offensive coordinator job
The Steelers' interview with Smith has raised questions among fans about the potential for Smith to join the team as the offensive coordinator. Furthermore, this move could help pave the way for the return of former Steelers Offensive Line Coach Mike Munchak. The line guru stepped away from the Steelers to coach closer to where his family was, but it was reported that he would be open to returning to coach in Tennessee.
Smith's coaching journey has been a rollercoaster ride. While his recent stint with the Falcons ended in disappointment, it's essential to look at his track record as the Titans' offensive coordinator before making a true judgment. Ray Fittipaldo, a reporter for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, suggested that Smith's success with the Titans during these years shouldn't be overlooked.
“Smith was a well-respected offensive coordinator for the Titans in 2019 and 2020 before he moved on to the Atlanta. The Titans made it all the way to the AFC championship game in 2019 before they lost to the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.”
Fittipaldo pointed out that during his time as the offensive coordinator of the Titans, Smith had the offense trending in the right direction.
“In 2019, the Titans were 10th in the league in scoring and total offense. In 2020, when they lost to the Ravens in an AFC wild card game, they were third in total offense and fourth in scoring.”
What makes the potential hiring of Smith even more intriguing is his past working relationship with Munchak according to Fittipaldo.
“Before he was offensive coordinator under Mike Vrabel, Smith worked under two other head coaches in Tennessee — former Steelers offensive line coach Mike Munchak and former Steelers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt.”
This connection could play a pivotal role in Munchak deciding he would be open to returning to Pittsburgh to coach the offensive line again.
Steelers' Ongoing Offensive Line Challenge
Currently, the Steelers are facing a challenge with their offensive line. While there has been improvement, there's still work to be done. With running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren poised to lead the ground attack and uncertainty surrounding the team's quarterback situation, Smith's potential arrival could bring hope for a revitalized offense.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Najee Harris (#22) warms up during a regular season game at Heinz Field in 2021.
The possibility of Munchak returning to the Steelers organization is an exciting prospect for Steeler Nation. During his tenure as the Steelers' offensive line coach from 2014 to 2018, the team enjoyed significant success, posting a record of 54-25-1. Under Munchak's guidance, the Steelers' offensive line was consistently regarded as one of the league's best, making his potential return a welcomed idea for fans.
While the potential return of Munchak would undoubtedly be a positive development for the Steelers, it would mean a change in the coaching staff. Pat Meyer, the current offensive line coach, would have to step aside to make way for Munchak. However, the potential benefits of Munchak's return would outweigh any disruptions to the coaching staff.
With Smith as the offensive coordinator and Munchak coaching the trenches, the Steelers could be on the cusp of a promising offensive future. Smith's history of success as an offensive coordinator, combined with his connection to Munchak, creates an exciting prospect for the team. With talented running backs and the quarterback situation yet to be resolved, the Steelers could potentially soar to new heights under this coaching tandem.
Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers former Offensive Line Coach Mike Munchak walks on the field as the team practices in Pittsburgh, PA.
In the world of sports, coaching changes can have a profound impact on a team's fortunes. The possibility of Smith becoming the offensive coordinator of the Steelers would bring some mixed reviews from fans. However, the potential to reunite with Munchak may help soothe the fans who are not excited about Smith.
While the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear. The Steelers' faithful are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this coaching search, hoping for a bright offensive future in the Steel City.
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