Steelers' Mike Tomlin Seems To Throw A Subtle Punch At Matt Canada

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense was abysmal during the 2023 season, leading the team to make an uncharacteristic move by firing a coach midseason. The Steelers parted ways with Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada following their 13-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 11.

After Canada’s departure, the offense showed some signs of improvement. However, questions and criticisms have continued to surround Canada’s troubled tenure with the Steelers. To address these issues, Pittsburgh brought in Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith this offseason, tasking him with revitalizing one of the NFL’s worst offenses.

During the offseason, Steelers Team President Art Rooney II emphasized the need for the offense to score more touchdowns, speaking candidly about the team's shortcomings. When Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media on Tuesday, he was asked about Rooney’s comments. Tomlin initially misunderstood the question, thinking it was about Smith, but he quickly clarified that Smith is not responsible for the struggles in 2023.

"Arthur is not toting those bags. Those bags aren’t his."

It's clear that Smith isn't responsible for any struggles that occurred before his arrival in Pittsburgh. Those failures aren't on him. 

However, Tomlin subtly suggested that the blame falls on himself and Canada, indicating they’re the ones who have to carry that burden. Tomlin's remark could be interpreted as a subtle jab at his former offensive coordinator.

Tomlin was asked about where the offense is standing at this point in time. He has zero interest in talking about that. He would rather show it with results on the field Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.

"I’m not interested in making you comfortable today to be quite honest with you. Those are just words and really at the end of the day, it’s somewhat meaningless. We will have an opportunity to put some tape out there this weekend that’s kind of reflective of that discussion."

Tomlin is eager to prove that his team will be more fundamentally sound in 2024, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. With Smith now leading the offense, there's growing optimism that Pittsburgh can overcome its offensive struggles and deliver a more productive and exciting season.

"I’m more of a doer than a talker. Talking glowing particularly when you are undefeated this time of the year is easy and I’m not attracted to easy."

Under Canada, the Steelers’ offense was historically poor for several seasons, leading to numerous questions about the unit’s performance. Tomlin acknowledges these concerns but is careful not to place undue pressure on Smith. He recognizes that the faults of the 2023 season primarily fall on Canada and himself.

While Tomlin's comments are mild and not intended as a significant critique of Canada, they do make it clear that he is aware of who was responsible for the offensive struggles last season. Tomlin is willing to accept his share of the blame as well.

Steelers Are Hopeful Arthur Smith Can Turn The Tide

Tomlin is enthusiastic about having Smith on his coaching staff and shares Steeler Nation’s optimism. With Smith leading the offense, there is hope that the unit can not only become respectable but also pose a significant threat in the league. 

Given the defense’s already impressive roster of playmakers, a revitalized offense could make the Steelers genuine Super Bowl contenders in 2024. Whether Tomlin likes it or not, there's pressure on Smith to fix the offense. If he doesn't then Smith will certainly be carrying that burden. 

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