Ex-Falcons HC Arthur Smith interviewing for Steelers OC vacancy

Finally, a legit name interviewing for Steelers OC gig.

Arthur Smith has long been tied through reports to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Until today, it was all just speculation.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Smith will interview for the Steelers offensive coordinator vacancy today.

Though Smith didn’t pan out as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, it was his work as offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans that ultimately got him the gig.

In his final season with the Titans, Smith, 41, coached the offense to second in yards produced and fourth in points scored. This was accomplished primarily through the ground game, which is exactly what the Steelers want. Najee Harris is no Derrick Henry, but Tennessee ranked third in yards and second in touchdowns (2019) and second in both categories in 2020.

Perhaps most importantly, Ryan Tannehill had two of his best seasons under Smith’s guidance, throwing 6,651 yards and 55 touchdowns (career-high 33 in 2020) to just 13 interceptions. Pittsburgh likely won’t want Kenny Pickett throwing a whole ton, but if they can get him to the point where he’s at least comfortable doing it, that would be significant.

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