Pittsburgh Steelers Gear Up for Ground Game in 2024 Under New OC Arthur Smith
The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to embrace a new era of play under the guidance of their recently appointed offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith. Known for his run-oriented scheme, Smith is expected to shift the Steelers' offensive focus significantly towards a ground-based strategy as they head into the 2024 season.
Challenges and Adjustments
With this renewed emphasis on the run game, the performance and health of the Steelers' running backs have become paramount. However, the team faced an early challenge during a preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills when Jaylen Warren suffered a hamstring injury. The incident occurred in the second quarter after Warren caught a pass from quarterback Russell Wilson. Despite walking off the field under his own power, Warren was quickly ruled doubtful to return, casting a shadow over the team’s preparation.
Before leaving the game, Warren had logged three touches, accumulating a total of 14 receiving yards. This setback is particularly poignant for Warren, who joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and quickly established himself as a reliable contributor. In the 2023 season, Warren approached 800 rushing yards and secured 61 passes for 370 receiving yards, solidifying his role in the offensive lineup.
The Dependable Lead
Amid these challenges, Najee Harris continues to shine as the team's lead ball-carrier. Over the past three seasons, Harris has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards each year, providing a steady and dependable presence in the backfield. Harris also took part in the preseason game against Buffalo, sharing early carries with veteran reserves Cordarrelle Patterson and La'Mical Perine.
Coaching and Recovery Focus
Arthur Smith’s emphasis on a run-heavy offense places additional scrutiny on the health and performance of the running backs. As the Steelers aim to maximize their ground game potential, monitoring Warren's recovery will be crucial. The preseason serves as an essential period for evaluating his progress, ensuring that he can contribute effectively when the regular season begins.
Despite Warren’s injury, the Steelers' dedication to a robust ground offense remains unshaken. The preseason game against the Bills, although ending in a 9-3 loss for Pittsburgh, provided valuable insights into the team’s depth and preparedness. Warren's ability to walk off without assistance is a positive sign, suggesting a hopeful outlook for his return.
Looking Forward
As the Steelers transition under Smith’s strategic direction, the team’s commitment to leveraging their running backs to the fullest will be meticulously tested. Preseason developments will play a critical role in shaping the team's dynamics and fortifying their ground attack. The Steelers are poised to navigate these adjustments with a clear focus on ring-fencing their running backs' health and optimizing their rushing capabilities.