Mike McCarthy’s uptempo offense is rooted in West Coast methodologies, emphasizing a quick-hitting passing offense that stresses opposing defenses in the horizontal plane. Shotgun formations and outside zone run tendencies double down on the intent to generate mismatches to the short and intermediate areas of the field, with downfield passing typically layered in behind those primary principles. That’s about as different as you can get from Arthur Smith’s “bully ball” mentality that was near the top of the league in 13-personnel alignments the previous two seasons. Emphasizing the change in offensive identity were the team’s offseason actions, including the addition of free agent wide receiver Michael Pittman, the selection of wide receiver Germie Bernard in the second round, and the signing of running back Rico Dowdle through free agency.
The team maintains one of the most talented defenses on paper, something that should aid in their ability to remain in games, like what we saw throughout the Mike Tomlin era. That said, McCarthy’s forward-leaning offensive mentality and identity should have this team playing faster and more aggressive than we’ve seen in some time in Pittsburgh, meaning we could see the Steelers improving significantly upon the 58.0 plays per game they averaged last season (fifth fewest). Pittman and DK Metcalf offer a dynamic one-two punch at wide receiver, with Pittman’s skillsets seemingly a perfect balancing act to pair with Metcalf’s freakishly athletic traits.
Jaylen Warren finished behind only De’Von Achane in explosive run rate behind outside zone concepts a season ago, of players to see 50 or more carries in that split. He also led the league in YPC on outside zone runs, again, of players to see 50 or more carries in that split. He appears to be a perfect match for McCarthy’s system that looks to generate running lanes to exploit via outside zone concepts by spreading an opposing defense horizontally. Dowdle has both experience in outside zone concepts and familiarity with McCarthy after playing under him in Dallas two seasons ago. This team looks to have the makings of being able to take significant steps forward in the box scores and win column in 2026.
The bear case is just the beginning. Behind the gate, you’ll find detailed expectations for key skill position players, scheme-fit analysis that challenges current draft cost, and a clear verdict on which backfield option deserves your investment this season. It’s all free — just create an account to keep reading.
