The Pittsburgh Steelers knew they were in desperate need of change regarding their offense. In the 2023 season, the Steelers' offensive struggles hit new lows, making them one of the biggest laughing stocks in the NFL. Faced with the challenge of turning things around, Pittsburgh brought in Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, hoping his experience and system could revitalize their stagnant attack. Smith was tasked with an almost impossible challenge—transforming a bad offense into a great one—and so far, he has risen to the occasion.
Though the 2024 offense still has room for improvement, the Steelers have made noticeable progress. They are scoring more points and steadily improving as games and the season progress. Pittsburgh is starting to build real excitement and hope around Smith’s new offensive system, which is beginning to show signs of life. With each passing week, the offense becomes more cohesive, sparking optimism that this could be the turnaround the Steelers have long needed.
One player who has made a significant impact under Smith’s system is tight end Darnell Washington. In his first season with the Steelers, Washington showed flashes of his potential but struggled with consistency. Now, in his second season, he has flourished. Smith has praised Washington for his exceptional growth, calling him one of the best blocking tight ends in the league. This development highlights the positive influence Smith has had on key players, helping them elevate their games and contribute to Pittsburgh’s evolving offensive success.
"One of the guys that I don't think [you appreciate], unless you're really sick in the head and love o-line tight end play in the core, is watching Darnell Washington week in and week out," Smith said via a team-provided transcript. "I'd argue there is not a guy that can dominate at the [Y] position quite like Darnell has all year."
Washington has truly thrived at the Y position, a role he was drafted for because of his exceptional blocking ability. While his primary strength has always been his ability to contribute as a blocker, he’s also seen a significant uptick in opportunities under Smith and with Russell Wilson in 2024.
Washington is one of the biggest and most immovable players in the league, and his development at the Y position has been a major win for the Steelers' offense. Smith has made it a point to highlight Washington’s contributions, ensuring that his impact on the new-look offense doesn’t go unnoticed.
Steelers' Arthur Smith Helping Many Players Have Great Seasons
Washington is not alone in benefiting from Smith’s presence. Many players on the offense have seen increases in their roles and chances, with the new system providing opportunities to showcase their skills. Tight end Pat Freiermuth, for example, has enjoyed a strong season, largely due to Smith’s innovative approach.
As George Pickens deals with a hamstring injury, Freiermuth will be called upon even more to keep the passing game effective and potent, continuing the offensive growth Pittsburgh is experiencing under Smith’s leadership.
Washington is already living up to the hype that surrounded him when the Steelers drafted him. It's exciting to hear Smith speak so positively about a young player, especially one who has made such significant strides early in his career.
The fact that he’s already this good bodes well for his future and gives Steeler Nation plenty of reasons to feel optimistic. Fans are beginning to feel more confident in this offense, but the real test will be whether Smith can keep things clicking without their top offensive talent, Pickens, in the lineup.
