The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant addition to their roster, agreeing to terms with tight end MyCole Pruitt. The move reunites Pruitt with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, under whom he previously played during his tenure with both the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons.
News of this signing broke on Twitter by NFL Rumors (@nflrums):
“#Steelers agree to terms with former #Falcons and #Titans TE MyCole Pruitt. He will join the offense where he played for OC Authur Smith. Earlier in free agency the team added Van Jefferson and Cordarrelle Patterson who played for Smith.”
#Steelers agree to terms with former #Falcons and #Titans TE MyCole Pruitt.
He will join the offense where he played for OC Authur Smith.
Earlier in free agency the team added Van Jefferson and Cordarrelle Patterson who played for Smith. pic.twitter.com/6NNc0EZvtw
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) April 5, 2024
This tweet highlights the Steelers’ strategy of reuniting players with their offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith. Pruitt joins wide receivers Van Jefferson and Cordarrelle Patterson, who previously thrived under Smith’s offensive scheme in Atlanta and Tennessee.
Pruitt: A Familiar Face for Smith
Pruitt, a veteran tight end with experience in both the Titans and Falcons organizations, played under Smith for a combined four seasons. This familiarity with Smith’s offensive system could benefit Pruitt significantly, allowing him to seamlessly integrate into the Steelers’ playbook. His experience as a blocker could also be valuable for the Steelers’ running game.
The Steelers have seen some turnover at the tight end position in recent seasons. Pruitt’s arrival likely doesn’t signal a starting role, but he provides depth and competition alongside Pat Freiermuth and rookie Darnell Washington. Pruitt’s blocking prowess could offer a complementary skillset to these more receiving-oriented tight ends.
Smith’s offensive scheme is known for its emphasis on play-action passing and a balanced attack. Pruitt’s experience in this system suggests he could contribute as a reliable blocker and occasional pass-catching option. His familiarity with Smith’s playcalling and terminology could also provide a leadership presence within the tight end room.
The Steelers’ offseason acquisitions, including Pruitt, Jefferson, and Patterson, suggest a potential shift towards Smith’s offensive philosophy. Reuniting these players with their former coordinator could lead to a more efficient and dynamic offense for Pittsburgh.
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