Pittsburgh Steelers expected to hire Zach Azzanni as WRs coach, Tom Arth as QB coach, retain Mike Sullivan

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a chance to assemble one of the better offensive staffs in the NFL this offseason.  And while it's too soon to determine if they have done that with their current hires and re-hires, the names signed today don't carry the same weight that some of the presumptive candidates did.  Pittsburgh decided […]

Rob Gregson NFL News Writer
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Jan 14, 2018; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers former wide receiver Hines Ward (left) talks with head coach Mike Tomlin prior to the AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports
Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a chance to assemble one of the better offensive staffs in the NFL this offseason. 

And while it's too soon to determine if they have done that with their current hires and re-hires, the names signed today don't carry the same weight that some of the presumptive candidates did. 

Pittsburgh decided to go with what they knew, and now it's either going to be a smart play, or a what-could-have-been situation:

Steelers Expected to Hire Azzanni, Arth, Retain Sullivan 

As far as the QB coach, Arth has been a head coach at the collegiate level and most recently served as the pass game specialist for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022. He's not exactly a splash hire, but final judgment should be reserved for his return. 

But the same can't be said for their hiring at WR coach. For one, Azzani comes from two organizations via Denver and New York that had some talent on the perimeter, yet struggled to pass the ball at a high level. 

But beyond that is the obvious missed opportunity that could have been a reunion with Hines Ward. This wasn't some feel-good story. Ward has spent most of his post-playing career as a coach both at the college and pro level, meaning he had the credentials for the job. 

So it comes off as disappointing at first glance, but the Steelers have confidence in their hiring process. 

One thing is for sure, there will be a new offense in Pittsburgh this season.

How well that offense performs… that's still up for debate.