Steelers’ Arthur Smith is a head coaching candidate for at least 2 teams

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a new era after Mike Tomlin decided to step down after nineteen seasons. This transition follows a 30-6 playoff loss to the Texans, leaving the team searching for its first new head coach in decades. To fill the vacancy, the franchise is considering elite options like John Harbaugh, who knows the division well.

Kevin Stefanski is also a major contender after his tenure in Cleveland. Additionally, the team could look at Klint Kubiak to modernize an offense that has long prioritized a defensive identity.

Dianna Russini reported on X that offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is drawing significant interest for multiple head coaching vacancies. According to Russini, “The Cardinals are requesting Steelers OC Arthur Smith for an interview,” and he is also scheduled to meet with the Tennessee Titans today.

Despite recent struggles, Smith’s experience as a former head coach has kept him in high demand. His potential departure would add complexity to the Steelers’ rebuilding efforts as they seek to finalize their own staff for the 2026 season.

Marcus Spears of ESPN suggested the team should look toward the collegiate ranks for their next leader, specifically mentioning Indiana’s Curt Cignetti. Spears noted that Cignetti’s personality would fit the Pittsburgh culture, stating:

“What I’ve watched this dude do with a university that was absolutely not even thought of as potentially ever winning a national championship… would make him a very enticing hire.”

While Cignetti is currently focused on the College Football Playoff title game against Miami, his rapid rise has made him a name of interest for franchises that value stability.

Owner Art Rooney expressed appreciation for Tomlin’s record, including thirteen playoff appearances, but the focus is now on the future. Whether the organization chooses a veteran like Harbaugh or a rising star like Kubiak, the goal is to return to a championship standard.

These upcoming interviews will be pivotal in determining the identity of the franchise as they look to restore the stability that defined the program for nineteen years.

The post Steelers’ Arthur Smith is a head coaching candidate for at least 2 teams appeared first on ClutchPoints.