Steelers Coach Seeks Balance with Rodgers and Run Game

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Steelers are trying to find synergy between their new quarterback Aaron Rodgers and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith‘s running strategy. The team finished fourth in the NFL for rushing attempts in 2024 while Rodgers, on his previous team, the Jets, threw the second-most passes in the league.

Smith spoke about the need for balance during a press conference on June 10, the first since Rodgers joined the team. “You’d love to be more balanced,” Smith said. “We didn’t bring Aaron in here … to go run the wishbone.” The Steelers averaged just 4.1 yards per carry last season, ranking 26th in the league.

Despite their struggles, Smith remains confident. “Our job, especially as a coach, is to play to the strengths of your players,” he said. With Rodgers in Pittsburgh, the coaching philosophy will adapt. Smith is also tasked with determining how much freedom Rodgers will have to change plays at the line of scrimmage.

Rodgers emphasized he will learn the offense and will communicate with Smith throughout the summer. “If there are things I like that I’d like to have in the offense, I’m sure Arthur is going to put it in,” he said.

The Steelers acquired Rodgers after the Russell Wilson experiment produced disappointing results, leading to Wilson’s departure when he failed to advance the team past the first round of the AFC playoffs. Smith addressed previous issues with play-calling freedom, stating, “Our issue at the end of the year is we didn’t give enough.”

Smith believes in Rodgers’ capabilities, particularly after an impressive late-season run with the Jets last year, where he threw 18 touchdowns against four interceptions. “You’re talking about one of the greatest passers in the history of this game,” Smith added.

As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season, they have made several roster changes, including the acquisition of wide receiver DK Metcalf and rookie running back Kaleb Johnson. Smith is clear that every season requires adjustments, and this one will be no different.