Arthur Smith’s name has been floated as a potential candidate to take over as head coach at the University of North Carolina, but the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive coordinator is firmly squashing those rumors.
Speaking Thursday after practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, Smith addressed the speculation head-on, confirming that he had been contacted by UNC regarding its head coaching vacancy but made it clear that he isn’t interested in making a return to the college ranks—at least not at this time.
“Obviously, that’s your alma mater,” Smith said, referencing his time as an offensive guard for the Tar Heels from 2001-05. “That’s not something I’ve thought about. Like a lot of these things go, I know in today’s media things can blow up out of control. The reality is, they reached out with a preliminary call. I appreciate it. Love that place, but that’s not my focus.”
The rumors surrounding Smith’s potential interest in the UNC job gained steam following the firing of Mack Brown on Tuesday. Brown, who led the Tar Heels for six seasons in his second stint, was dismissed after a lackluster campaign that has left UNC with a 4-7 record. As one of the more prominent names in the NFL coaching landscape, Smith’s connection to the university naturally made him a candidate of interest, especially given his strong ties to the program.
However, Smith, who is in his first season as the Steelers’ offensive play caller, was quick to shut down any speculation of a possible departure.
“I’ve got one of the best jobs in football right now,” Smith said, reflecting on his current role with the Steelers, who are 8-3 and leading the AFC North. “There’s a lot to be said, too, about [the fact] you can’t put a price on personal and professional happiness, which I have here.”
Smith’s focus is squarely on the Steelers’ push for the playoffs, despite some recent struggles on the offensive side of the ball. Pittsburgh has won four of its last five games, but the offense has been inconsistent, particularly in the red zone and in short-yardage situations. As the Steelers head into Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Smith is working to fine-tune an offense that has averaged 328 yards and 22.9 points per game this season.
But for now, despite being connected to a high-profile college job, Smith’s heart and mind are firmly in Pittsburgh.
“I probably have a different mindset than I did five or four years ago when any head job I probably would have walked there to take it,” Smith said. “Now my perspective is different. When you’ve got something good, like I’ve got here in Pittsburgh right now—my family loves it here and I like the working environment, love being a Steeler.”
While Smith has built an impressive coaching resume in the NFL, including stints as the Tennessee Titans’ offensive coordinator and head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, his priority remains with the Steelers. His tenure in Pittsburgh has brought stability to the offense, and he’s building a strong rapport with quarterback Kenny Pickett and the rest of the offensive unit. It’s clear that Smith is enjoying his role and the culture in Pittsburgh, something that seems to outweigh the allure of a potential college head coaching gig.
For the Steelers, this is a positive sign. Smith has shown both the ability and the temperament to lead a successful offense at the NFL level, and it’s reassuring for the team’s future that he isn’t distracted by outside offers, no matter how enticing they may seem.
“I love that place [UNC], appreciate it,” Smith added, reiterating his connection to his alma mater. “But that’s usually how it goes. People cast a wide net, some narratives get out of control, and you try to control it. In one way, it’s nice to be that someone reaches out, sure, but I’ve got an awesome job here, love it here in Pittsburgh.”
As the Steelers prepare for the stretch run of the 2024 season, the focus will remain on improving the offense and securing a playoff berth. For now, Arthur Smith is happy where he is—leading a team in the NFL, with a championship mindset and a long-term commitment to Pittsburgh. And as for those UNC rumors? They’re officially in the rearview.
