The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a new era. With Mike McCarthy now officially in as head coach, the focus shifts quickly-and critically-to the offensive coordinator spot.
This hire won’t just shape the offense in 2026; it could define McCarthy’s tenure in Pittsburgh. And with Arthur Smith expected to depart following Mike Tomlin’s exit, the Steelers are starting with a clean slate on that side of the ball.
For McCarthy, a seasoned head coach with a Super Bowl ring and a deep résumé, the decision here is pivotal. He’s long been known for his offensive acumen, but in today’s NFL, surrounding yourself with innovative minds is just as important as calling plays yourself. Pittsburgh needs someone who can elevate the offense-and maybe, in time, take over the reins themselves.
Let’s break down the top names who could step into that role and help reshape the Steelers' offensive identity.
Joe Brady - Bills Offensive Coordinator
Joe Brady is one of the hottest names on the market right now-and for good reason. Since taking over play-calling duties in Buffalo, Brady has helped unlock another level in Josh Allen’s game. The Bills’ offense has looked more dynamic, more balanced, and more dangerous with him at the controls.
Brady has already drawn head coaching interest this cycle, but if he doesn’t land one of those top jobs, he could be the kind of splash hire Pittsburgh needs. He brings youth, creativity, and a proven track record of developing quarterbacks. If the Steelers are serious about modernizing their offense, Brady would be a marquee get-but they’ll have competition for his services.
Nate Scheelhaase - Rams Pass Game Coordinator
Nate Scheelhaase is a name that’s gaining traction around the league, and for good reason. He’s part of the Sean McVay coaching tree, which continues to churn out offensive innovators. With the Rams, Scheelhaase has played a key role in designing one of the league’s most efficient passing attacks.
If McCarthy wants to take a bold step toward the future, Scheelhaase could be the move. He’s young, forward-thinking, and already drawing attention from teams looking to inject life into their offenses. For Pittsburgh, this would be a high-upside swing-a chance to pair McCarthy’s experience with a rising star in the coaching ranks.
Kliff Kingsbury - Former Commanders Offensive Coordinator
Kliff Kingsbury’s name continues to circulate in coaching circles, and while he may not land a head job this cycle, his offensive pedigree remains strong. Say what you will about his head coaching stints, but Kingsbury knows how to build an offense. From his college days at Texas Tech to his time in Arizona and most recently with Washington, Kingsbury has consistently produced explosive passing games.
For the Steelers, Kingsbury would bring a wealth of experience and a quarterback-friendly system-something that could be crucial if Pittsburgh is looking to develop a young signal-caller. He’s a proven play-caller who could give the Steelers a much-needed jolt on offense.
Davis Webb - Broncos Pass Game Coordinator
Davis Webb might not be a household name yet, but he’s quickly earning a reputation as one of the league’s brightest young minds. Under Sean Payton in Denver, Webb has helped engineer a surprising offensive turnaround. He’s drawn praise for his work with the Broncos’ passing game and is reportedly on the radar for promotions across the league.
For Pittsburgh, Webb would be a bold, forward-looking hire. He’s learned from one of the best in Payton and has shown he can translate that knowledge into results. If the Steelers want to get ahead of the curve, Webb could be a name to watch.
Brian Daboll - Former Giants Head Coach
If the Steelers want experience, Brian Daboll checks a lot of boxes. Before his stint as head coach of the New York Giants, Daboll was widely regarded as one of the top offensive minds in the NFL. His work with Josh Allen in Buffalo helped turn the Bills into contenders, and his ability to design quarterback-friendly systems is well-documented.
Daboll’s head coaching run in New York didn’t pan out, but that doesn’t erase his value as a coordinator. For a team like Pittsburgh, which could be looking to stabilize and energize its offense, Daboll would be a veteran presence with a proven track record. It would be a big-name move-and one that could pay big dividends.
Bottom Line:
The Steelers have a major decision to make-and they can’t afford to miss.
Whether they go with a rising star like Scheelhaase or Webb, or opt for a seasoned hand like Daboll or Kingsbury, the next offensive coordinator will play a massive role in shaping the franchise’s future. With McCarthy at the helm, Pittsburgh has a chance to reimagine its offensive identity.
The right hire could not only elevate the offense but potentially set the stage for the next era of Steelers football.