The Steelers are set to sign former Atlanta Falcons tight end MyCole Pruitt to a new contract, per Jeremy Fowler. It’s certainly an interesting signing, considering the personnel Pittsburgh currently has. At the very least, this is extra depth for the team at TE. That can’t hurt… right?

“Tight end MyCole Pruitt has agreed to terms with the #Steelers, per source. Reunited with Arthur Smith from their Tennessee and Atlanta days.”

In 2023, Pruitt had nine catches for 110 yards and one touchdown reception. He played in 36% of the snaps last season for the Falcons.

Arthur Smith remodels the Steelers

Ask any Steelers fan what the biggest problem of the team last season was, and they’d point to the offense without question. Pickett had his fair share of flaws, but most of the blame fell on Matt Canada. There was a good reason why that’s the case: for years, the Pittsburgh offense has looked lifeless with Canada calling the shots. His departure this offseason came as a relief to fans.

However, Canada’s replacement is arguably the second-most hated offensive mind in the league. Arthur Smith’ was to Falcons fans what Canada was to Steelers fans. With Pittsburgh fans complained about the lack of variety in their OC’s plays, Smith’s problem was arguably his way-too-creative sets. His aversion to using Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts endlessly frustrated fans (and fantasy football players).

One thing that Smith has going for him is Atlanta’s quarterback play. Falcons fans all but confirmed that Desmond Ridder was not capable to be an NFL starter. Even with the shoddy playcalling, nothing about Ridder’s play was redeemable. The Steelers are hoping that Russell Wilson (or perhaps Justin Fields) is a much better quarterback than Ridder.

Pittsburgh’s QB outlook

Another thing worth watching this season is how the Steelers navigate their quarterback room. They completely overhauled the position, swapping in Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph for Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. In theory, this is the perfect scenario for Mike Tomlin and the team. Wilson steps in as the QB this season, while Fields takes a season off to learn behind an all-time QB.

However… Wilson’s play isn’t what it once was. The Steelers quarterback was decent last season, but the same playstyle that worked for him before hasn’t been effective. He was better last year than his first year in Denver… but that’s not saying much, if we’re being honest.

The Steelers will need to properly assess when to bring in Fields when Wilson starts to struggle or deals with injury. It’s not going to be easy, of course. Pittsburgh has always been a team that contends for the title, no matter the personnel. They prefer a veteran QB over a young gun. Who knows what happens this season, though?