Steelers fire offensive coordinator Matt Canada amid fourth season with team
It appears that the Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to part ways with offensive coordinator Matt Canada due to ongoing struggles with the team's offense. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed the decision on Tuesday, emphasizing that it was not taken lightly and that he had a lot of respect for Canada both personally and professionally.
Following Canada's firing, quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan and running backs coach Eddie Faulkner will take over the coordinator duties. Faulkner is expected to serve as the interim OC, while Sullivan, with previous coordinator experience, will handle play-calling responsibilities.
Matt Canada joined the Steelers in 2020 as quarterbacks coach and was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2021. Despite expectations of modernizing the team's offense, the results were disappointing, with the Steelers consistently ranking low in yards and points during Canada's tenure. In 2023, the team currently ranks 28th in both yards and points.
The decision to part ways with Canada comes after a string of poor offensive performances, including a recent 13-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns where the Steelers struggled to generate yardage, particularly in the passing game.
Despite the offensive struggles, Coach Tomlin expressed continued faith in quarterback Kenny Pickett, stating that Pickett would remain the team's starting QB. The decision to retain Pickett reflects the coaching staff's belief in his growth and development, despite the challenges faced during his second season.
The Steelers, with a record of 6-4, currently sit at No. 7 in the AFC. However, their negative point differential indicates the challenges they've faced, and the decision to part ways with Canada suggests a recognition of the need for change to salvage the season and potential playoff hopes.