The Pittsburgh Steelers fired offensive coordinator Matt Canada, according to a release from the team.
The Steelers lost to the Cleveland Browns 13-10 on the road Sunday in another less than stellar offensive performance. Canada was previously under fire pretty much the whole season.
Now, the Steelers will go in a different direction.
“Matt Canada has been relieved of his duties as offensive coordinator,” head coach Mike Tomlin said in a statement. “I appreciated Matt’s hard work and dedication, and I wish him the best moving forward in his career.”
With Canada out, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported what was next.
“No official announcement, but my understanding is the #Steelers are expected to have RB coach Eddie Faulkner take over as OC, with QB coach Mike Sullivan handling play-calling duties,” he wrote on Twitter.
Initially, the Steelers did not have plans to fire Canada, but obviously those changed going into the latter stages of November.
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported Saturday that Canada is safe, at least in mid-October.
“The Pittsburgh Steelers have no plans to fire offensive coordinator Matt Canada or turn the play calling over to another coach on the staff, a person familiar with the situation shared this week,” Russini wrote. “I was told if a move was going to be made, it would have happened already.
“Though fans have criticized Canada and his play calling, Steelers players and coach Mike Tomlin have continued to show him support. I was told the team held a meeting this week to come together and search for some answers as they approach the bye week.”
Traditionally, the Steelers don’t make changes like mid-season. IN Canada’s case, it had to be done to those in the organization.
“The organization doesn’t traditionally fire assistant coaches in-season but rather leans into improving performance by adding more physical practice,” Russini wrote last month. “Development at quarterback and along the offensive line will be critical. The Steelers have solid skill players but need help running the ball and giving Kenny Pickett time to throw to George Pickens, Diontae Johnson or Pat Freiermuth.”
The Steelers were also the first team in NFL history to be out-gained on offense in the first eight games of the season, and still have a winning record.
But the issues were glaring on Sunday in the loss at Cleveland. Mustering just 10 points in Canada’s offense, the Steelers missed an opportunity to pass the Browns and gain ground on the Baltimore Ravens within the AFC North race.
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