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The Biggest Questions We Can’t Wait to Have Answered in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL Season | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats & Rumors
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The Biggest Questions We Can’t Wait to Have Answered in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL Season | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats & Rumors

Russel Wilson

Russel WilsonJustin Berl/Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers have done a lot to overhaul their offense in the 2024 offseason, but much of it has been accomplished on a shoestring budget.

It’s like a DIY project on a budget: we’re going to find out if it lasts or if it doesn’t take long for the whole thing to collapse.

Virtually every aspect of the offense could be different this season.

The Steelers have traded Matt Canada for Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator. Canada was relieved of his duties last November, while Smith was fired as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons at the end of the season.

Smith would have to have a completely different philosophy on offense. Even his personnel usage was the opposite of Canada and the Steelers last season.

Pittsburgh ranked sixth in 11 personnel (one running back, one tight end) usage, while ranking 25th in EPA for those players, according to Sumer Sports. Meanwhile, the Falcons ranked first in 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends) usage.

Then there’s the quarterback trade to consider. The Steelers are spending just $1.2 million on starting quarterback Russell Wilson. That’s an incredible value if Smith can get him playing well in his 35th season, but there’s no guarantee that will happen.

Then there’s the question of whether Pittsburgh will use new replacement Justin Fields in any way.

The Steelers are good enough on defense to be a tough opponent for anyone, even if the offense is only average. The unit is one of the most radically transformed in the league.

There’s a lot to learn about the group when they take on Smith’s former Falcons team in Week 1.