Steelers’ OC Arthur Smith Addresses UNC Coaching Rumors
In a surprising turn of events, Arthur Smith, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive coordinator, has confirmed that he’s been in contact with the University of North Carolina (UNC) regarding their vacant head coaching position. This revelation has sent shockwaves through both NFL and college football circles.
The Unexpected Call
Smith, a UNC alumnus who played offensive lineman for the Tar Heels from 2001 to 2005, received what he described as a “preliminary call” from his alma mater. The contact came after UNC’s recent dismissal of longtime coach Mack Brown.
“Reality is [UNC] reached out on a preliminary call,” Smith stated. “I appreciate it, love that place. But that’s not my focus”.
Smith’s Current Position
The 42-year-old coach is in his first season with the Steelers, having joined the team in February after a three-year stint as the Atlanta Falcons’ head coach. Under Smith’s guidance, the Steelers’ offense has shown marked improvement:
- The team is currently 14th in NFL scoring, up from 28th last year
- They’re on track to rank in the top 10 in rushing for the first time since 2007
- The Steelers are 8-3 and leading the AFC North division
Commitment to Pittsburgh
Despite the intriguing opportunity at UNC, Smith emphasized his satisfaction with his current role in Pittsburgh. “I’ve got an awesome job here,” he said. I love it here in Pittsburgh. “
Smith explained that his perspective on job opportunities has changed over the years. “I probably [have] a different mindset than I had five or four years ago where any head job, I probably would’ve walked there to take it,” he reflected. “Now my perspective’s different, and when you got something good like I got here in Pittsburgh right now, family loves it here. I like the working environment, love being a Steeler”.
The UNC Situation
UNC’s coaching position became vacant following Mack Brown’s dismissal. The search for a new head coach has sparked numerous theories and speculations, with names like Lincoln Riley being mentioned.
Smith’s Coaching Journey
Arthur Smith’s coaching career began as a graduate assistant at UNC in 2006. He then spent a decade with the Tennessee Titans, culminating in his role as offensive coordinator in 2019 and 2020. During his tenure with the Titans, Smith’s offense boasted a formidable run game led by Derrick Henry and impressive red zone efficiency.
Current Challenges
While the Steelers’ offense has shown improvement under Smith, recent games have seen a dip in performance. The team scored only 18 points against Baltimore in Week 11 and 19 points in their loss to Cleveland last Thursday.
Smith is also navigating the challenge of integrating backup quarterback Justin Fields into the game plan. “Certainly, there’s a plan, and sometimes you adapt to more,” Smith explained. So, would you like to see more or less of Justin? And how do you weigh that? Maybe there is a disruption issue with Russ. These are all conversations. “
As the football world buzzes with this unexpected development, all eyes will be on Arthur Smith and the Steelers’ performance in the coming weeks. While the UNC job may be tempting, Smith’s words suggest he’s fully committed to his role in Pittsburgh, at least for now.