Brad Spielberger of Pro Football Focus acknowledged that with Arthur Smith taking over as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ new offensive coordinator, Ryan Tannehill appears to be the most natural fit as a free agent quarterback addition due to their previous collaboration in Tennessee. However, on the February 2 episode of the PFF NFL Show, Spielberger also identified the Steelers as one of his top choices for quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Spielberger pointed out, “Ryan Tannehill is the more obvious choice because of his past connection with Arthur Smith in Tennessee.” He added, “But I also speculate whether the Steelers might assess their situation and think, ‘We’ve consistently achieved 9-8, 10-7 records with quarterbacks who are frankly below average or replacement level.'”
He continued, “Cameron Heyward is nearing 35, and T.J. Watt will hit 30 soon. While Watt will likely remain impactful for several more years, perhaps the Steelers are considering making a significant move. Bringing in Kirk Cousins could elevate us to win a couple of playoff games by maintaining our current strengths while upgrading at quarterback.”
“I find Pittsburgh’s potential approach intriguing,” Spielberger remarked.
Despite the possibility of Cousins re-signing with the Minnesota Vikings, he remains one of the most sought-after free agent quarterbacks this offseason. Cousins, who will be 36 in August, has a career record of 76-67-2 as a starter. He led the Vikings to a 4-4 record in 2023 before sustaining a right torn Achilles tendon on October 29.
Cousins holds a 1-3 record in postseason games, while the Steelers aim to break their five-game playoff losing streak in 2024.
Kenny Pickett Not a Fit For Arthur Smith’s Offense?
Spielberger highlighted another significant factor in considering Kirk Cousins as an upgrade over Kenny Pickett for the Steelers: the compatibility of Pickett with Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme. Spielberger emphasized that while Smith’s approach could potentially evolve, historically, it doesn’t align with what Pickett and the Steelers’ offense have executed.
“Arthur Smith’s style, historically speaking, doesn’t sync up with what Kenny Pickett and this offense have been doing,” Spielberger remarked. He pointed out disparities in key elements such as outside zone runs and play-action passes. According to Spielberger’s analysis, the Steelers ranked in the bottom third in these categories with Pickett at the helm, while Smith’s offense with the Falcons excelled, ranking in the top two in both aspects during 2023.
Additionally, Spielberger noted that Smith heavily utilized formations featuring one running back and two tight ends during his time in Atlanta, a strategy not frequently employed by the Steelers with Pickett.
While Spielberger’s statistical insights provide valuable context, it’s essential to recognize that the Steelers dismissed their previous offensive coordinator, Matt Canada, due to subpar performance. It would be illogical for the Steelers to have their next offensive coordinator replicate all the same plays, formations, and concepts that Canada employed. Therefore, Spielberger’s analysis underscores the potential challenge of integrating Pickett into Smith’s preferred offensive system, further supporting the case for pursuing Cousins as a more seamless fit.
What Kirk Cousins Would Bring to the Pittsburgh Steelers
Indeed, in terms of experience and statistical performance, Kirk Cousins presents a clear upgrade over Kenny Pickett. Over his 12 seasons in the NFL, Cousins has surpassed the 4,000 passing yard mark seven times and has accumulated three seasons with 30 or more touchdown passes. In comparison, Pickett, in his 25 NFL games, has thrown for 4,474 yards and only 13 touchdowns.
While Cousins’ Achilles injury might raise concerns, reports indicate a positive trajectory in his rehabilitation process. Expressing optimism about his recovery, Cousins conveyed his eagerness to return to the field for the upcoming season and emphasized a newfound appreciation for playing.
As Spielberger highlighted, acquiring Cousins would undoubtedly be a significant move for the Steelers, likely involving a substantial financial investment. Cousins played the 2023 season under a $35 million fully guaranteed contract, indicating the hefty price tag associated with signing him.
Despite Cousins’ sub-.500 record in postseason games, there’s optimism that he could find greater success in Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme, particularly with the defensive support provided by the Pittsburgh Steelers. This combination could potentially enhance Cousins’ playoff performance and lead to a more successful postseason run.