Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith Shares Honest Vision For 'Explosive Offense' With DK Metcalf

With the 83rd overall selection in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have added to their offensive backfield by choosing running back Kaleb Johnson from the University of Iowa. While opinions vary among fans and analysts regarding the Steelers' most pressing needs in this year's draft, the selection of a running back in this spot is a move that many observers can appreciate for its potential value and impact on the team's ground game.

Following the Steelers' selection of Johnson in the third round, Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith addressed the media during a press conference to discuss the team's latest addition. When the question of wanting a run-first offensive was asked, Smith offered the following insights.

"We've obviously added DK [Metcalf], we want to be [an] explosive offense," Smith said. "I think balanced is the right word."

During the recent offseason, the Steelers made a big move to strengthen their offensive capabilities by acquiring veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks. The Steelers parted ways with their coveted second round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to secure the talents of Metcalf, who is expected to bring a considerable physical presence and dynamic playmaking ability to the Steelers' receiving corps. 

Recognizing Metcalf's value and potential impact on their team's future success, the Steelers further solidified their commitment by signing him to a substantial five-year contract valued at $150 million, signaling a clear investment in his long-term contributions to the organization.

Throughout his impressive three-year time as a running back for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, Johnson demonstrated consistent productivity, amassing a total of 2,779 rushing yards and finding the end zone 30 times on the ground. However, it was during his final year in Iowa City that Johnson truly elevated his performance to an exceptional level. In his senior year, he exploded for a remarkable 1,537 rushing yards and scored an impressive 21 rushing touchdowns, ultimately leading the entire conference in both statistical categories. Beyond his skills as a runner, Johnson also showcased reliable hands as a receiver out of the backfield, hauling in 22 receptions during his senior season. Furthermore, he proved to be a consistent threat in the red zone, adding two receiving touchdowns to his tally, which meant that Johnson also led the conference in total touchdowns scored, combining both his rushing and receiving contributions.

The departure of their former starting running back, Najee Harris, to the Los Angeles Chargers has created a new opening for the running back room. After the Steelers decided to not exercise his fifth-year option, Harris, who accumulated an impressive 4,312 rushing yards with four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in Pittsburgh, signed elsewhere. This development has fueled anticipation that the Steelers will prioritize the running back position in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Earlier in the offseason, the Steelers made a strategic move to strengthen their depth in the backfield by acquiring running back Kenneth Gainwell. Gainwell, previously a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, he brings a unique skill set and valuable experience to the Steelers' roster. This acquisition signifies the Steelers' proactive approach in reshaping their running back room following the departure of their former lead back.

Steelers fans have good reason to be optimistic about the team's potential to have a truly explosive offense, a goal that is shown by the presence of impactful players poised to make a big impact on offense. The current offseason strategy, as discussed by Smith, reflects a commitment this goal. 

The Steelers Still Have More Picks To Make

With the 2025 NFL Draft still happening, the Steelers have multiple picks remaining, offering them further opportunities to shape their explosive roster for the upcoming season. Holding multiple picks in the later rounds of the draft, the Steelers' strategic approach will be particularly interesting to see. These selections present a chance to add depth as well as identify potential developmental prospects. As the draft progresses, the decisions made by the Steelers' front office regarding which positions to prioritize and the specific types of players they choose to target will provide significant insight into their overall team-building strategy and their vision for the future.