Last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced a series of challenges that left fans frustrated and eager for change. The team’s offense seemed stuck in a rut, struggling to find its rhythm despite high hopes. Arthur Smith, the offensive coordinator, was brought in to turn things around. But what happened next wasn’t exactly what fans expected. Instead of bringing in his usual system, Smith had to make some difficult decisions that would shape the team’s offensive strategy moving forward. But…there was a reason.

According to Steelers Depot on X, “Arthur Smith Admits Steelers Didn’t Run His Core Scheme In 2024,” saying, “I Pivoted.” He admitted he had to adjust to the guys he had, not the system he prefers. The offensive coordinator didn’t want to force a scheme that didn’t fit. So he played it safe.

During a presser, Smith admitted, “I pivoted. I mean, last year we didn’t run as much true outside zone. And that was due to just some familiarity with some of the players we had. You try to adapt to the strengths of the players, you don’t wanna be rigid. We ran a lot less wide zone, outside zone, whatever you wanna call it, than I had previous couple of years.”

Well, Arthur Smith didn’t just walk in and force his playbook on the Steelers—he adjusted. That takes humility. That takes awareness. Every coach has their own system, sure, but the smart ones know when to bend. And with a young offensive line and Pat Meyer back guiding the run game, Smith held back on his usual outside zone stuff. He knew what Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren needed. They’re not speed guys who dance outside. They do their damage in the trenches. Smith saw that. So instead of pushing what looked pretty on paper, he leaned into what made sense on the field. Well, that’s how you earn trust in a locker room.

That said, 2025 is different. With Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson now in the mix, Arthur Smith finally has someone who fits his true style. It’s his offense now. And the results follow better.

How is Kaleb Johnson the right puzzle piece for Arthur Smith?

The Pittsburgh Steelers knew it was time for a change in the backfield. After shipping Najee Harris off to the Chargers, they needed a fresh start. So, Arthur Smith and the team selected Kaleb Johnson, the explosive Iowa running back, whom they picked in the third round.

Johnson may not run the fastest 40-yard dash, but his quickness and physicality are exactly what the Steelers need. At 224 pounds, he hits top speed quickly and doesn’t shy away from breaking tackles. He fits perfectly with the Steelers’ zone-running scheme, something Harris struggled with last year. That’s why the offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, is excited to have him, calling him the “Perfect fit, regardless of whatever run scheme you’re running. He ran multiple at Iowa. Really impressive as a volume runner as the game went on, and one of the more impressive stats you’ve seen is the fourth quarter — what he averaged in the fourth quarter. I believe it was over five yards per carry. Might have been closer to six.”

Johnson’s ability to thrive in the fourth quarter with impressive numbers shows his potential, and his arrival brings new energy to the team. With his cheaper contract and strong cultural fit for the system, Johnson could be the key to revitalizing Arthur Smith’s Pittsburgh ground game.