The Pittsburgh Steelers have brought in Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith with the goal of revitalizing their offense. The 2023 season was a challenging one for the Steelers, as their offensive performance was among the worst in franchise history. However, the arrival of Smith offers a promising new direction. Known for his innovative approach, Smith is set to implement a physical offensive scheme that emphasizes a robust running game, strategic play-action, and a prominent role for tight ends.
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Steelers' Pat Freiermuth celebrates a big play against the Bengals.
Pat Freiermuth, drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, began his career with the advantage of catching passes from the iconic Ben Roethlisberger. During his rookie season, Freiermuth made an immediate impact, scoring seven touchdowns and quickly endearing himself to Steeler Nation. Unfortunately, his subsequent seasons were marred by injuries and a system that failed to fully utilize his talents, coupled with inconsistent quarterback play.
As a result, Freiermuth's production dwindled, with just four touchdowns over the next two seasons and only 47 targets in 2023. However, with Smith now at the helm, there is renewed optimism. According to a team-provided transcript, Smith has explicitly stated that Freiermuth, along with other tight ends, will play a central role in the 2024 offense. This commitment to featuring tight ends more prominently could signal a significant turnaround for Freiermuth and the entire Steelers' offense.
"Well, all of them. All these guys, they are finding out what their strengths are, how it fits the overall scheme, but it’s been fun. When you can play with multiple tight ends, guys that can do a lot, especially on those early downs—it has been a good camp for those guys. So, it’s unfortunate that Rodney [Williams] got hurt and we’re working him back in—he's having a good spring in camp, but MyCole Pruitt, Darnell [Washington], Pat [Freiermuth], it's a good group, good mix."
Smith made it clear that Freiermuth isn’t the only tight end set for an increase in targets. Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward, and even MyCole Pruitt are all expected to play significant roles in the offense.
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Steelers' Darnell Washington fights off a Tampa Bay defender.
When asked about involving Washington more in the passing game, Smith confirmed that all these tight ends will be integral to the team's strategy. He was careful not to give away his full plans.
"Well, it’s all going to play out, but yeah, all these guys, we just don't want it to become obvious, right? So, it’s every time this guy in here in this formation, they’re only doing that," Smith said. "So, we need everybody involved and that will be week to week and how we want to scheme it up, but you can’t become obvious, because naturally there are going to be tendencies, but that's what you are constantly looking at, and we need everybody involved to make us more lethal offensively."
Smith is clearly keeping his strategies under wraps as he faces significant pressure to revamp the Steelers' offense. However, it’s apparent that increasing the involvement of tight ends in the passing game and utilizing multiple tight end sets are high on his agenda. Smith has a proven track record of effectively using tight ends, often employing them as a committee.
Steelers' Tight End Room Has A Lot Of Potential
The Steelers boast a deep and talented group at the tight end position. Freiermuth, the most skilled receiver among them, is poised for a breakout season under Smith's guidance, potentially setting career highs in several categories. Washington, though initially not expected to be a major pass-catching threat, is a dominant force who could be leveraged effectively in the passing game.
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Steelers' Connor Heyward running with the ball.
Heyward, known for his versatility and willingness to mix it up, is expected to see an expanded role in 2024, fulfilling his hopes for a larger impact. Pruitt, a veteran familiar with Smith from their previous time together, is another intriguing piece. Although not a guaranteed roster spot, Pruitt’s prior success under Smith suggests he could also play a role.
Overall, the tight end room is generating excitement, and Steelers fans are eager to see how Smith will harness the talents of this group to transform the offense.
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