Report: Steelers Extending Contract Of Running Backs Coach Eddie Faulkner

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly set to extend the contract of running backs coach Eddie Faulkner, sources close to the team revealed. The news was first reported by Jordan Schultz, a prominent insider for Bleacher Report, who shared the update on his social media platform on Monday.

Steelers' Busy Offseason Continues

The Steelers' offseason in 2024 has been marked by significant activity, with the arrival of new coaches and numerous new faces within the organization. Amidst these changes, the decision to retain Faulkner is likely to be welcomed by Steelers fans, providing a sense of continuity and familiarity within the coaching staff.

Faulkner's role within the Steelers organization has been multifaceted, including serving as the team’s interim offensive coordinator during the 2023 season. His versatility and contributions have earned him admiration both within the Steelers' ranks and across the league. According to Schultz, Faulkner is not only esteemed as a running backs coach, but is also being considered for a potential promotion to offensive coordinator in the future.

The extension of Faulkner's contract underscores the Steelers' commitment to maintaining stability and expertise within their coaching staff, a crucial aspect of the team's ongoing success and development.

Faulkner's coaching odyssey commenced in 2002 at Anderson University, where he assumed the role of running backs coach. His journey then meandered to Ball State University, spanning from 2003 to 2010. Starting as a graduate assistant, Faulkner steadily ascended through the coaching ranks, ultimately donning hats as the running backs coach, special teams coordinator, and eventually, offensive coordinator.

In 2011, Faulkner found himself at Northern Illinois University, where he took charge as the running backs coach and special teams coordinator. A brief stint followed at the University of Pittsburgh in 2012, focusing his expertise on coaching running backs. Faulkner then ventured to the University of Wisconsin, serving as the tight ends coach, before landing at North Carolina State University from 2013 to 2018. During his tenure at NC State, Faulkner undertook various coaching roles, including tight ends, fullbacks, and special teams coordinator.

The zenith of Faulkner's coaching voyage materialized during his tenure with the Steelers, initially joining as the running backs coach in 2019 and extending through 2023. Notably, Faulkner assumed the interim role of offensive coordinator in 2023. The recent news of his extension solidifies Faulkner's continued role as the running backs coach for the Steelers.

Under the stewardship of new Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, the Steelers' offense is poised to emphasize a robust ground-and-pound run game. Bolstered by a talented running back corps featuring Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, Faulkner's extension bodes well for Steelers fans. The success witnessed under Faulkner's tutelage in 2023, particularly evident in the latter part of the season, provides a promising glimpse into the future.

In the 2023 campaign, Harris exhibited his prowess by amassing 1,035 yards on 255 carries, punctuating his performance with eight touchdowns. Likewise, Warren contributed significantly, tallying 784 yards on 149 carries and securing four touchdowns. 

The anticipated return of Faulkner adds an extra layer of excitement to the already dynamic duo of Harris and Warren, promising an exhilarating spectacle in 2024. Meanwhile, the Steelers are making waves early in the offseason, fiercely determined to reclaim their status as Super Bowl contenders.

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