Steelers OC Search: McCarthy Prioritizing Fit, Familiarity, and Flexibility
New Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy is wasting no time shaping his coaching staff in Pittsburgh, and the offensive coordinator position is clearly a top priority. During an appearance on the WDVE Morning Show, McCarthy offered a candid look into what he’s looking for in his next OC-and it’s more than just playbook knowledge.
“To be honest with you, when you get into the seventh, eighth week of a regular season, coordinating is the hardest job on the coaching staff,” McCarthy said. “The responsibility of that individual is huge, as far as how you progress as an offense.”
That’s not just coach-speak. McCarthy has long been known for his hands-on approach to offensive football, often serving as the primary play-caller himself. And he confirmed that won’t change in Pittsburgh.
“I will call the plays on offense,” McCarthy said. “So obviously will run the offense.”
That sets the tone for the kind of coordinator he’s after-someone who can complement his vision, manage the week-to-week grind, and help develop a cohesive offensive identity, even if they’re not the one calling plays on Sundays. For McCarthy, it’s about building the right mix of experience and youthful innovation, and most importantly, finding the right fit.
Familiar Faces and New Names Enter the Mix
McCarthy has already begun assembling his staff, bringing in new voices while retaining some key holdovers from Mike Tomlin’s regime. Quarterbacks coach Tom Arth, linebackers coach Scott McCurley, and secondary coach Gerald Alexander are staying on board, providing some continuity as the team transitions into a new era.
But the real intrigue lies in the search for the offensive coordinator. According to reports, the Steelers have notified the New Orleans Saints of their intent to interview assistant Scott Tolzien for the role.
Tolzien’s name rings familiar in McCarthy circles. After a seven-year NFL career, the former quarterback-who started out as an undrafted free agent with the Chargers in 2011-spent time with the 49ers before landing in Green Bay with McCarthy. That shared history could give Tolzien a leg up, especially with McCarthy emphasizing fit and familiarity.
Another candidate with McCarthy ties is Lunda Wells, the current tight ends coach for the Dallas Cowboys. Wells interviewed for the job earlier this week, bringing with him a résumé that includes stops with the Giants and a stint at LSU before joining McCarthy’s Cowboys staff in 2020. He remained in Dallas under Brian Schottenheimer, but is clearly on the radar for multiple OC openings, having also interviewed with the Commanders and Jets.
Wells’ background is rooted in the trenches-tight ends, offensive line, special teams-which could bring a physical edge to the Steelers’ offense. And given McCarthy’s preference for a balanced attack, that kind of versatility might be exactly what he’s looking for.
The Name to Watch: Brian Angelichio
While the Steelers are casting a wide net, one name continues to surface as a top target: Brian Angelichio. Currently the passing game coordinator and tight ends coach for the Minnesota Vikings, Angelichio has a reputation for elite tight end development and a sharp understanding of the passing game.
He’s also no stranger to McCarthy. The two worked together in Green Bay from 2016 to 2018, during the tail end of McCarthy’s Packers tenure. That experience-especially working with Aaron Rodgers during some of his most productive seasons-carries weight.
Angelichio’s coaching résumé is deep. Since 2022, he’s been helping shape the Vikings’ aerial attack.
Before that, he spent time with the Panthers, Redskins, Buccaneers, Browns, and of course, the Packers. He also has Pittsburgh roots, having coached tight ends at Pitt from 2007 to 2010 under Dave Wannstedt.
At 53, Angelichio brings a blend of NFL experience and developmental chops that could be the perfect complement to McCarthy’s play-calling authority. If the Steelers are looking for someone who can build out the passing game, mentor young talent, and align with McCarthy’s offensive philosophy, Angelichio checks a lot of boxes.
What’s Next?
With McCarthy at the helm and the OC position still open, the Steelers are clearly being deliberate. This isn’t just about hiring a play designer-it’s about finding a partner who can help implement McCarthy’s vision while also bringing fresh ideas to the table.
Whether it’s a familiar face like Tolzien, a versatile coach like Wells, or a seasoned strategist like Angelichio, the Steelers are looking for someone who can handle the grind of a long season, develop talent, and fit seamlessly into the culture McCarthy is building in Pittsburgh.
The offense will run through McCarthy. But the right coordinator could make all the difference in how far it goes.