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Byron Leftwich being fired could be good news for the Pittsburgh Steelers

By Michael Johnson

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 16: Offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first half of the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 16: Offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first half of the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 16, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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One team’s trash could be The Pittsburgh Steelers’ treasure. A fired Byron Leftwich could be the perfect offensive coordinator for the Steelers.

A disappointing season for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers led to the organization possibly moving from Byron Leftwich. Given the lackluster performance of the Steelers, a guy like Leftwich makes sense. One of the biggest reasons why Leftwich would be a great fit for the Steelers is his previous experience with the team. Leftwich spent the 2008 season as the backup quarterback for the Steelers, where he gained valuable knowledge of the organization and its culture. This experience would enable him to hit the ground running as the offensive coordinator and understand the team’s expectations and goals.

Leftwich’s coaching background saw him coach vets and going quarterbacks alike Leftwich began his coaching career as an intern with the Arizona Cardinals in 2016 and has since worked his way up to the position of offensive coordinator. He has experience working with young quarterbacks, which would be beneficial for the Steelers, who have a young quarterback in Kenny Pickett.

We’ve seen the benefit of having a former quarterback as the primary play caller for a young guy. Recent examples are Ken Dorsey and Josh Allen, Doug Pederson, and Trevor Lawrence. Pickett could benefit from a guy who understands the pressures of trying to live up to being a first-round pick. It doesn’t hurt that Leftwich coached the greatest quarterback of all tie in Tom Brady

More important is Leftwich’s offensive philosophy. He has been known for his ability to design and implement creative plays, which is something the Steelers could use to shake up their stale offense.

Leftwich loves to use pre-snap motion to create mismatches and open up the field for the quarterback and receivers. This can be done by moving a receiver or tight end from one side of the field to the other, or by having a running back go in motion, which would maximize Najee Harris’ receiving ability.

Speaking of Harris, Leftwich would bring a run-heavy concept. He employs heavy play-action plays that are designed to look like a running play, cresting easy throws for Pickett. The dynamic George Pickens would dominate over the top, similar to Mike Evans, while Diontae Johnson would feast underneath.

The Steelers’ decision to wait for the right candidate before deciding on their offensive coordinator position indicates that they are looking for someone who can bring a fresh perspective to their offense. Leftwich could be that guy. His previous experience with the team, coaching background, and offensive philosophy make The Pittsburgh Steelers and Byron Leftwich a match made in football heaven.

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