The Pittsburgh Steelers are going through more change than most NFL teams during the 2026 offseason due to Mike Tomlin stepping down after nearly two decades as the franchise's head coach. Tomlin's departure opens the door for complete turnover on the coaching staff, which is probably a good thing in the long run. Pittsburgh's second-longest tenured coach departed on Tuesday as former special teams coordinator Danny Smith joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Former Steelers special teams coordinator Danny Smith during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Smith had been with Pittsburgh for 13 seasons, and he was beloved by most casual fans. Broadcasts always showed him getting excited with his players or chewing a more than necessary amount of gum. His time in Pittsburgh will always be remembered, but now he is moving on to Tampa Bay.
The #Buccaneers are hiring veteran special teams coordinator Danny Smith, sources tell me and @RapSheet. Now 50 years into his coaching career, Smith is still going and still considered one of the best in the biz. On to Tampa for the 72-year-old, gum-chewing Smith. pic.twitter.com/Apn4dYj71q
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 20, 2026
Smith is considered one of the better special teams coordinators in the league. He has had a ton of good players on his units that have made some big plays, but he has struggled in recent years. Pittsburgh's return-game has left a lot to be desired, but maybe he will do better down in Tampa Bay.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Former Pittsburgh Steelers special teams coordinator, Danny Smith during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Smith leaving Pittsburgh is probably for the best. He was a fun coach to have with the team, but a complete overhaul of the staff after Tomlin's tenure is absolutely necessary. Pittsburgh's approach in nearly every facet of the game has been completely outdated, and it is a big reason the franchise has not been able to get over the hump in recent years. Smith was not a bad coach, but it is time for some change. Pittsburgh can bring in a new special teams coach who might bring some refreshing and new ideas to the table.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Former Steelers Special Teams Coordinator Danny Smith speaks to his players before the 2025 season opener at MetLife Stadium.
Steelers Fans Will Have To Wait For Coaching Staff To Be Filled Out
Pittsburgh is not going to have any other holes on the coaching staff filled until a new head coach is brought in. He will hire his own coordinators, and that is when fans get an answer on who will be replacing Smith. The Steelers have been needing some improvements on special teams. The average kick return is not good, and the team doesn't seem to try to pin opponents deep on punts. Field position is of the utmost importance, and hopefully the Steelers will get better in that regard with a new coach taking over.
What do you think of Smith leaving Pittsburgh to join the Buccaneers? Let us know in the comments below!
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