As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue their search for a new offensive coordinator, a familiar voice has chimed in with some valuable advice. Former NFL quarterback Ben Roethlisberger recently shared his thoughts on how head coach Mike McCarthy should handle the situation, especially after a disappointing season.
The Steelers had high hopes for the 2021 season, with a talented roster and a proven head coach in McCarthy. However, things did not go according to plan as they finished with a 9-7 record and missed out on the playoffs. This has led to some changes in the coaching staff, with the offensive coordinator position being the most crucial one to fill.
Roethlisberger, who has been with the Steelers for 18 seasons and has won two Super Bowls with the team, knows a thing or two about what it takes to be successful in Pittsburgh. And he has some clear advice for McCarthy on what type of coordinator the Steelers should be targeting.
“I would still like for us to be a run-first team,” Roethlisberger said in a recent interview. “I think that’s what Steelers football is all about. We have a great running back in Najee Harris, and I think we need to utilize him more. So, I would like to see us bring in a coordinator who can establish a strong running game and build our offense around that.”
Roethlisberger’s words hold a lot of weight, as he has been the leader of the Steelers’ offense for many years. He knows the team’s strengths and weaknesses and understands what it takes to win in Pittsburgh. And his suggestion of focusing on the running game is a valid one, considering the talent the Steelers have in Harris.
The rookie running back had an impressive debut season, rushing for 1,250 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also showed his versatility as a pass-catcher, recording 367 receiving yards and three touchdowns. With his combination of speed, power, and agility, Harris has the potential to be the focal point of the Steelers’ offense.
But for that to happen, the Steelers need to bring in a coordinator who can design a scheme that maximizes Harris’ abilities. And Roethlisberger believes that the team should look for someone who has a proven track record of developing running backs.
“We need someone who can develop and utilize our running backs to their full potential,” Roethlisberger said. “Someone who can create mismatches and get Harris the ball in space. That’s what will make our offense more dynamic and put us in a better position to win games.”
Roethlisberger’s message to McCarthy is clear – the Steelers need a coordinator who can build the offense around the running game and utilize Harris’ talents to the fullest. And while it may be challenging to find the perfect candidate, the Steelers must take their time and make the right decision.
Unfortunately, the Steelers have hit a setback in their search for a new offensive coordinator. Matt Canada, who was promoted to the position after Randy Fichtner was fired, has been denied permission to interview for the job by the Carolina Panthers. This means that the Steelers will have to look elsewhere for their next coordinator.
But Roethlisberger remains optimistic and believes that the Steelers will find the right person for the job. He also emphasized the importance of having a good working relationship between the head coach and the coordinator.
“It’s crucial for the head coach and the coordinator to be on the same page and have a good understanding of each other’s philosophies,” Roethlisberger said. “That’s what leads to success and consistency on the field. And I have full faith in Mike McCarthy to make the right decision for the team.”
In conclusion, Roethlisberger’s message to McCarthy is one of positivity and motivation. He wants the Steelers to get back to their roots and establish a strong running game, which has been the foundation of their success for many years. And with the right coordinator in place, the Steelers can bounce back from their disappointing season and return to their winning ways.
