PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Steelers have everything going for their offense – on paper. A second-year quarterback, a third-year Pro Bowl running back, three star wide receivers, a top-10 tight end, and some new additions that should max out the explosiveness of this unit.
But something is still worrisome to those on the outside. That something is offensive coordinator Matt Canada.
The Steelers OC continues to be criticized about what he can accomplish in the NFL, and one analyst believes he’s going to keep Pittsburgh’s offense from reaching its full potential this season.
During an appearance on the Mina Kimes Show, PFF’s Steve Palazzolo didn’t hold back about the struggles Canada’s offense has had.
“Pickett looks great, but it didn’t show up on the stat sheet, and I think a lot of that comes down to Matt Canada,” Palazzolo said. “They finished strong, but they don’t have a ton of easy stuff. The reason why everyone loves Kyle Shanahan is because of what he did with Brock Purdy, and look at all of those open throws. But Pickett to Pickens has to be precise on back shoulders. Then, Kenny Pickett throws a seam route to Freiermuth, and it’s like, ‘woah, they have a middle of the field to attack, that’s amazing’.”
The Steelers’ lack of over-the-middle passes was a pressing concern for the team last season. The team finished 26th in scoring offense and 23rd in red zone offense in 2022, averaging just 18.1 points per game last season.
This year, they’ll look to take a step forward with Pickett at quarterback, a new offensive line and the addition of Allen Robinson and Calvin Austin at wide receiver. Until Canada’s play-calling improves, though, those around the league will remain skeptical.
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