3 reasons Steelers fans should be excited despite missing the playoffs

Steelers reasons for optimism: Matt Canada’s days are numbered

By no means is Mike Tomlin going to fire Matt Canada on the spot, but Pittsburgh’s offense has looked far too limited for the better part of two seasons. Sure, there was some improvement down the stretch, but much of that appeared to be in spite of Canada, rather than to his credit.

Pickett is the franchise quarterback, at least for now. Entrusting his development to Canada, who has no prior NFL offensive coordinator experience and has led one of the worst offenses in football for two straight years, would be a horrible decision by the front office and Tomlin.

Replacing Canada will not be easy. Pickett could have some say, but not too much, as he’s still a young QB. There should be some good replacements on the open market if the Steelers are willing to pay, such as Bill O’Brien and even Byron Leftwich after a tough year in Tampa Bay.

The point is, though, that the Steelers need to find an offensive coordinator who can grow with Pickett, rather than one who will bolt at the first head coaching opportunity. That is not an easy task in today’s game, or the coaching world.

As a defensive coach, hiring a play-caller hasn’t always been Tomlin’s strength. He will need the right input and advice to ensure Pickett is in good hands. At the very least, it likely won’t be Canada, which is a step in the right direction.