Arthur Smith's joke about Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf makes Steelers' offensive plans clear

With quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf in the fold, don't expect the Pittsburgh Steelers to use a stone-age offense next season. 

"Obviously, we didn't bring Aaron in here and sign DK for all that money to go run the wishbone," Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith said in a Wednesday news conference. "You try to play to the strengths of your team." 

The wishbone offense rose to prominence in college football when the Texas Longhorns used it to win a national championship during the 1969 season. The formation featured three running backs standing behind the quarterback.

Of course, the Steelers didn't run the wishbone last season, but their offense looked outdated. Pittsburgh finished with the league's fourth-most carries (533) and fourth-fewest passing attempts (499) during the regular season. 

The run-heavy offense was ineffective. The Steelers ranked 16th in the league in points scored (22.4). In their final four regular-season games in 2024, they failed to score 20 points or more in each game.

Adding Rodgers and Metcalf should open up the playbook, improving the offense's balance. Smith plans to tailor his offense for the stars to maximize their skill sets. 

"Our job, especially as a coach, is to play to the strengths of your players," Smith said. "We have our foundation things that don't change, but whether you lean into certain schemes, year after year, you adapt again to the personnel you've got." 

The success of the Steelers offense hinges on the team protecting Rodgers. Since the 41-year-old tore his left Achilles in 2023, he has often looked like a statue in the pocket. In 17 starts for the New York Jets last season, he took 40 sacks, the fifth most in his career.

If four-time MVP Rodgers stays healthy, he and two-time Pro Bowler Metcalf could become a dynamic duo. That would certainly allow Smith to draw up more downfield passing plays for them.