Steelers hire Arthur Smith: Why Pittsburgh chose former Falcons HC as new offensive coordinator

Pressure is building on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin despite 17 consecutive seasons without a losing record. Pittsburgh hasn't won a playoff game in seven years, and more offensive struggles in 2023 made Tomlin's search for an offensive coordinator particularly meaningful. Now, the Steelers have their man, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero -- former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith.

The Steelers were intent on going outside the organization for their next offensive play-caller, and they landed a coach with not only play-calling experience but head coaching experience, as well.

Smith was fired by the Falcons earlier in January after three consecutive 7-10 seasons as Atlanta's head coach.

Here's what you need to know about why the Steelers are hiring Smith, plus a look at the 41-year-old's coaching history.

MORE: Why the Falcons fired Arthur Smith

Why did the Steelers hire Arthur Smith?

The Steelers likely know they will need to run efficiently the ball to win in 2024, with no clear solution at quarterback unless Kenny Pickett can take a big step forward. The running game is Smith's specialty.

Smith was the Titans' offensive coordinator during Derrick Henry's two most productive rushing seasons, including Henry's 2,027-yard campaign in 2020. While Smith's usage of the Falcons' best weapons was criticized over the past three years, Atlanta finished top 10 in rushing yards in both '22 and '23. 

That doesn't mean Smith's Falcons offenses were a success by any means. Atlanta's rushing attack was used heavily in 2023, but it sat near the middle of the pack in efficiency despite strong run-blocking and the addition of Bijan Robinson. That might have played out differently if the Falcons had a bigger threat at quarterback, but it can be argued that Smith won't be working with a much better QB situation in Pittsburgh.

Smith's work with Pickett or a veteran quarterback addition will be crucial, but with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren both locked into the Steelers' backfield in 2024, the biggest priority might be finding a way to run the ball consistently after an up-and-down 2023 in that department.

Steelers owner Art Rooney emphasized the need to win in the playoffs this week, telling ESPN, "We've had enough of this. It's time to get some wins; it's time to take these next steps." That means Tomlin and Smith will enter 2024 under quite a bit of pressure to compete with the AFC's best despite the conference's slew of high-end quarterback talent.

MORE: Art Rooney II says Steelers are feeling pressure to win in the playoffs

Arthur Smith coaching history

Smith has five years of offensive play-calling experience between the Titans and Falcons, and he's served a handful of other roles on both sides of the ball in his coaching career.