Aaron Rodgers, Arthur Smith Already Building Chemistry as Steelers Shape New Offense
New Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith have reportedly already developed a strong working relationship as they look to tailor the team's offensive scheme around Rodgers' skill set.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the two have been in 'constant communication' throughout the offseason, working to 'reconfigure the offense' and 'find a sweet spot where Rodgers can still do all the things he likes to do at the line of scrimmage, while staying true to the system.'
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At first glance, Smith's offensive philosophy may appear like a significant adjustment for Rodgers. Smith has traditionally leaned on heavy personnel groupings, frequently using multiple tight ends and fullbacks to create leverage and numbers in the run game. His scheme is methodical, built on wide zone and duo run concepts that force defenses to commit an extra safety to the box , which then creates one-on-one opportunities on the perimeter.
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and quarterback Russell Wilson at practice on Jan. 9, 2025 — Ed Thompson/ Steelers Now
Smith's past offenses have also benefited from quarterbacks with mobility, such as Justin Fields, Marcus Mariota, and Desmond Ridder. That mobility allowed him to incorporate zone read and option elements to keep defenses honest.
Rodgers, now 41, may no longer possess the athleticism he once had, but he remains a highly efficient passer. In 2024, he threw for more than 3,800 yards with 28 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions, showing he still has the ability to produce at a high level. He's more of a traditional dropback quarterback who thrives in spread formations and excels in West Coast passing concepts, often controlling protections and routes at the line.
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While Rodgers and Smith may differ in both style and philosophy, there's reason to believe the two can find common ground. Smith previously worked under Matt LaFleur in Tennessee when LaFleur served as the Titans' offensive coordinator and Smith was the tight ends coach. Just one year later, LaFleur became the head coach of the Green Bay Packers, where he spent multiple seasons calling plays for Rodgers in a system rooted in similar wide zone principles.
Playcaller-quarterback relationships are often the driving force behind offensive success, and early signs of a strong connection between Smith and Rodgers should be encouraging for the Steelers as they look to compete in a loaded AFC North this season.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Aaron Rodgers, Arthur Smith Already Building Chemistry as Steelers Shape New Offense
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