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Insider: Steelers’ Arthur Smith had ‘very tough and honest’ talks with Russell Wilson

Insider: Steelers’ Arthur Smith had ‘very tough and honest’ talks with Russell Wilson

Pittsburgh Steelers He made a few big changes in the 2024 offseason to fix their abysmal offense. It started with the appointment of the offensive coordinator arthur smith. Later signed by Steelers RussellWilson A minimum one-year senior agreement was reached. They then traded for another quarterback. Justin Fields.

Both quarterbacks helped the offense improve, but Wilson came out on top with four straight wins before losing 24-19 to the Cleveland Browns on “Thursday Night Football.” NFL’s Albert Breer before the Browns game revealed that Smith and Wilson had to have some tough conversations to get the veteran quarterback to embrace the new system.

According to Breer, Smith laid out a vision for the Steelers’ offense that focused on the discipline and efficiency that Wilson struggled with during his time with the Denver Broncos. The uncomfortable conversations reportedly revolved around Smith demanding that Wilson adapt his style of play to fit the team’s system; This includes quicker decision-making and more confidence in the running game. Although Wilson initially resisted, Smith’s no-nonsense approach eventually won him over, leading to a revival of the offense and the Steelers’ surprising early success.

“A lot of that happened with the support of Russell Wilson himself, and that happened with Smith and Wilson having a series of very tough, honest one-on-one conversations away from other players and away from other coaches,” Breer said. in question.

Despite the recent loss to Cleveland, Wilson’s play was noticeably more controlled and the Steelers’ offense showed the consistency fans have come to expect.

Smith’s ability to get Wilson on the same page was crucial, and his leadership created a sense of responsibility throughout the team. With Fields are also in the mixThe Steelers now have multiple options at center, giving the offense a chance to continue improving as the season progresses.

A viral clip from the Browns game highlighted one of the missed chances, showing Wilson not looking at Pat Freiermuth’s open position for a potential touchdown. The embarrassing loss to Cleveland served as a reality check for the Steelers and Wilson. But at 8-3, the team remains in control of its playoff destiny and Wilson is expected to bounce back with his usual composure.

Wilson faces some challenges in Pittsburgh

The progress that Steeler Nation was celebrating came to a screeching halt when the offense failed to score any touchdowns against the Baltimore Ravens. This lack of production carried over into the game against the Browns, where scoring was difficult for much of the night. Although the Steelers scored two touchdowns to take the lead, the missed opportunities left much to be desired.

Despite the offensive struggles much of the night, Wilson made some incredible throws to help the Steelers take the lead.

The Steelers’ quarterbacks will need that toughness because the schedule ahead is unforgiving. Leaving a winnable game to the Browns adds pressure to an already brutal stretch and makes each remaining matchup even more critical as Pittsburgh battles to stay on top.