The University of North Carolina’s search for a new head football coach in the wake of Mack Brown’s dismissal has led them to a prominent NFL offensive coordinator – and one of their own former players. Pittsburgh Steelers OC Arthur Smith confirmed on Thursday that his alma mater reached out to him about potentially filling their coaching vacancy.
“Reality is [UNC] reached out on preliminary call,” the 42-year-old Smith told reporters. “I appreciate it, love that place. But that’s not my focus. I mean I’ve got one of the best jobs in football right now.”
Smith Happy in Pittsburgh, Mindset Has Changed
While Smith has clear affection for UNC, where he played offensive line from 2001-2005 and later began his coaching career as a graduate assistant in 2006, he also emphasized how content he is in his current role with the Steelers.
There’s a lot to be said too about [how you] can’t put a price on personal and professional happiness, which I have here.
Arthur Smith on his job with the Steelers
Smith noted that his perspective on head coaching opportunities has shifted from a few years ago, when he likely would have jumped at any chance to lead a program. After a challenging three-year stint as the Atlanta Falcons head coach from 2021-2023, which ended with his dismissal after failing to make the playoffs, Smith seems to have a renewed appreciation for the right fit.
I’ve got an awesome job here. Love it here in Pittsburgh. [I] probably [have] a different mindset than I had five, four years ago where any head job, I probably would’ve walked there to take it. Now my perspective’s different, and when you got something good like I got here in Pittsburgh right now, family loves it here. I like the working environment, love being a Steeler.
Arthur Smith
Offensive Pedigree and Steelers Success
Smith earned a reputation as an innovative offensive mind during his time with the Tennessee Titans from 2011-2020, where he served in various roles before a successful two-year stint as offensive coordinator. His Titans offenses ranked highly in rushing yards behind star RB Derrick Henry and were extremely efficient in the red zone, scoring touchdowns on over 75% of trips inside the 20 in both 2019 and 2020.
While the Steelers offense hasn’t quite matched those lofty red zone numbers in Smith’s first year at the helm, ranking 28th in the league at a 44.4% touchdown rate, the rushing attack is among the NFL’s best. Pittsburgh ranks 8th overall with 135.2 rushing yards per game. The team has also rallied to a 6-6 record and remains in the thick of the AFC playoff race.
UNC’s Coaching Search Continues
For UNC, Smith was likely one of many candidates the program is considering as they seek to replace the legendary Mack Brown. The 71-year-old Brown was fired earlier this month after an incredible career that included a combined 25 years and 259 victories at UNC and Texas. But after three straight sub-.500 seasons, the university decided it was time for a change in Chapel Hill.
While it doesn’t appear Smith will be returning to lead his alma mater, at least not at this juncture, UNC is sure to attract significant interest from top coaching candidates around the country. For now, though, Smith’s focus remains on continuing to elevate the Steelers offense and making a push for the postseason in Pittsburgh.
