With the New York Jets looking to reset after another disappointing season, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has emerged as a top candidate for their head coaching vacancy.
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a high-stakes playoff clash with the Baltimore Ravens, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith finds himself in the spotlight for another reason. The New York Jets have formally requested to interview Smith for their open head coaching position, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
Labeled “an intriguing name to watch,” Smith’s candidacy marks a pivotal moment in the Jets’ search for stability and leadership following the dismissal of Robert Saleh.
Smith’s journey back into the head coaching mix
Smith’s name carries weight in coaching circles, largely due to his previous head coaching experience with the Atlanta Falcons, where he compiled a 21-30 record from 2021 to 2023. While his tenure in Atlanta ended with his firing after the 2023 season, his reputation for offensive innovation remains strong.
In his first season as the Steelers’ offensive coordinator, Smith orchestrated a unit that averaged 22.4 points and 319.4 total yards per game. While not league-leading numbers, the improvement in Pittsburgh’s offensive consistency has not gone unnoticed.
This isn’t the first time Smith has been on the Jets’ radar. The team interviewed him during their 2021 coaching search before ultimately hiring Robert Saleh. Now, with the Jets once again seeking a fresh start, Smith has re-emerged as a serious contender.
A crowded field of candidates
The Jets are casting a wide net in their search for a new head coach. Alongside Smith, they’ve also requested interviews with Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Additionally, former Jets head coach Rex Ryan, who led the team from 2009 to 2014, is reportedly in consideration.
Smith’s mix of head coaching experience and offensive expertise makes him a compelling option for New York, a franchise desperate to fix its long-struggling offense and maximize the potential of its young talent.
What Smith brings to the table
Smith is known for his ability to design balanced offenses that leverage both the run and pass games effectively. During his tenure in Atlanta, his work with quarterbacks like Matt Ryan and Marcus Mariota highlighted his adaptability, and his success in Pittsburgh this season underscores his ability to elevate underperforming units.
For a Jets team that has struggled to establish offensive identity and consistency, Smith could provide the structure and vision needed to turn things around.
Will Smith get the job?
While Smith is generating buzz in New York, no other teams have requested to speak with him yet. However, that could change as other organizations evaluate their coaching needs.
The Jets’ decision will likely depend on how well Smith aligns with their vision for the future. With a competitive pool of candidates and high stakes for the franchise, New York’s next hire could define the team’s trajectory for years to come.
