In a move that many Steelers fans have long called for, the Pittsburgh Steelers have officially parted ways with Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada. The decision, announced by Head Coach Mike Tomlin, comes as the Steelers find themselves ranked 28th in offensive performance midway through the season.
Tomlin, addressing reporters, expressed the gravity of the decision, stating, “I did not come to this decision lightly.” Despite Tomlin’s previous backing of Canada, the team’s offensive struggles have become too pronounced to ignore, jeopardizing their playoff prospects.
Following Canada’s departure, Steelers quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan and running backs coach Eddie Faulkner will assume coordinator duties. Faulkner is expected to serve as interim OC, while Sullivan, with previous coordinator experience, will handle play-calling responsibilities.
Canada, who joined the Steelers in 2020, was tasked with modernizing the team’s offense, but results fell short of expectations. In 44 games as OC, the Steelers never ranked higher than 23rd in yards and 21st in points. The 2023 season has seen the team languishing at 28th in both
The decision to stick with Canada in the offseason, hoping for offensive continuity, has now been reversed as the struggling offense becomes a major concern. Despite the change, Tomlin reaffirmed his faith in quarterback Kenny Pickett, stating, “There’s such a thing as football justice. Those guys usually get what they’re looking for.”
With a 7-5 record, the Steelers currently sit at No. 5 in the AFC, but a negative point differential raises questions about their playoff viability. The timing of Canada’s firing reflects a response to the team’s recent performance, emphasizing the urgency to address the myriad issues plaguing the offense as they aim to salvage the remainder of the season.