Steelers' Art Rooney II Will Have Massive Influence In Next Offensive Coordinator And Byron Leftwich Is Reportedly Not An Option

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a monumental decision in the 2024 offseason. It will be one that will define the future of their franchise. The spotlight is on the selection of the next offensive coordinator, a critical position for a team looking to reinvigorate its offensive prowess. 

One Steelers insider believes that Art Rooney II, the Steelers' President, will have significant influence in who Pittsburgh names as their next offensive coordinator. Mark Kaboly, a respected voice who covers the Steelers with The Athletic, recently shared his perspective on the Steelers' next offensive coordinator during an appearance on 93.7 The Fan. 

"I really do believe Art is gonna have a huge, huge say, so they're going down to the Senior Bowl here in another week and a half, and Art normally goes down there as well for a day or two. I'm sure they will be talking to some guys there." 

Steelers Won't Be Calling Byron Leftwich

Speculation has been rife among Steeler Nation and analysts about who might fill the role of offensive coordinator. One name that has surfaced is Byron Leftwich, the former offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

"It is not gonna be Leftwich. I could tell you who not it's going to be more than [who] it's going to be," Kaboly said.

However, Kaboly dispelled any notion of Leftwich being the Steelers' next offensive coordinator. While Leftwich, a former Steelers quarterback and Super Bowl champion with the Steelers (as a player) and Buccaneers (as a coach), may seem like a suitable candidate, Kaboly made it clear that it's not going to be Leftwich.

Mike Tomlin, the Steelers' head coach, made it evident during his press conference that the team would look beyond its own ranks to find the next offensive coordinator. This marks a departure from the Steelers' tradition of promoting from within, a practice they last deviated from when they hired Todd Haley in 2012. Taking on the role of offensive coordinator for the Steelers is a compelling opportunity, though it does come with its own distinct set of responsibilities and hurdles. Given the struggles of the Matt Canada offense, the expectations are currently quite low, making it an exciting prospect for any potential candidate.

During Canada's tenure, the Steelers consistently had one of the league's poorest offenses for multiple seasons. His offensive approach led to the Steelers ranking near the bottom of the league in every crucial offensive statistic. He even went as far as to say that the Steelers weren't built to come back from behind. That's a statement you never want to hear from your offensive coordinator.

One aspect of the job is clear and that's that the Steelers' offense has struggled historically in recent years, setting the bar relatively low for the incoming coordinator. Merely achieving an above-average performance could earn them accolades and appreciation from fans and the organization. The potential for redemption and transformation of the offense is an alluring prospect for any aspiring coordinator.

However, the risk factor cannot be ignored. The Steelers' quarterback situation is uncertain, with questions surrounding the future signal-caller. Whether it's Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph or another quarterback, the coordinator will inherit a situation with unknown variables. Navigating this quarterback transition will be a key challenge for the new hire.

The Steelers' decision to appoint their next offensive coordinator is undeniably pivotal. Rooney's influential role in this process, along with the team's willingness to explore candidates outside the organization, marks a significant shift in the franchise's approach. For the Steelers to reclaim their position as one of the NFL's premier teams, making the correct decision regarding their next offensive coordinator is imperative. There is no room for error in this crucial choice, as time is of the essence.

As the Steelers embark on this journey to revitalize their offense and reclaim their status as contenders, the expectations and challenges facing the new coordinator are both intriguing and daunting. The NFL world awaits the unveiling of the individual who will shape the future of the Steelers' offensive game.