As Mike McCarthy continues to shape his coaching staff in Pittsburgh, there's a noticeable sense of momentum building within the organization. After a few years of stagnant offensive identity and staff turnover, the Steelers are finally starting to modernize their approach-and the pieces being added are raising some eyebrows in a good way. But while the staff is beginning to take form, one major role remains unfilled: offensive coordinator.
That vacancy became even more intriguing when Arthur Smith, who had been expected to move on, made a surprising pivot-leaving the Steelers for the same role at Ohio State. While his departure wasn’t shocking in itself, the jump to the college ranks certainly raised some questions. It also left Pittsburgh with a crucial decision to make, and the search for Smith’s replacement has been quietly intensifying behind the scenes.
Now, it appears the Steelers are nearing the finish line.
Steelers Narrow OC Search to Finalist Pool
According to a recent report, the Steelers have trimmed their list of offensive coordinator candidates down to two names: Scott Tolzien and Brian Angelichio. Both have ties to McCarthy from previous coaching stops and bring different strengths to the table. The interviews are done, and the decision is reportedly close.
Tolzien, who many within Steelers Nation had pegged as the frontrunner, has a direct line to McCarthy’s offensive philosophy. He’s seen firsthand how that system can work when executed well-just look at Kellen Moore’s success in Dallas. That connection had fans optimistic that Tolzien could bring a similar spark to Pittsburgh’s offense.
But in a twist, Tolzien has now pulled his name out of the running. That development leaves Brian Angelichio as the clear top candidate moving forward.
Angelichio: An Underrated Veteran Voice
Let’s be clear-Angelichio isn’t just a fallback option. In fact, his coaching résumé is deeper than Tolzien’s, with experience spanning both the college game and multiple NFL stops. He’s worked alongside some of the league’s more innovative offensive minds and has built a reputation as a steady, detail-oriented coach.
It’s a bit surprising that Angelichio hasn’t landed an OC job before now, given his credentials. But in Pittsburgh, the timing might finally be right. With McCarthy looking to establish a cohesive, forward-thinking staff, Angelichio could be the kind of voice that helps bring balance and structure to an offense that’s been searching for an identity.
Decision Coming Soon
The Steelers are expected to make an official announcement in the near future. With the offseason ramping up and roster evaluations around the corner, Pittsburgh is eager to have its full coaching staff in place. Whoever ends up with the offensive coordinator title will play a key role in shaping not only the scheme but also the development of the team’s young offensive talent.
All signs now point to Angelichio stepping into that role. And while he may not have been the initial fan favorite, his experience and familiarity with McCarthy’s system could make him exactly the kind of stabilizing presence the Steelers need as they look to turn the page offensively.