The Pittsburgh Steelers have made an interesting move by bolstering their tight end corps, a decision that comes with the arrival of Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Smith's reputation for integrating tight ends effectively into his offensive schemes had sparked speculation regarding potential additions to the Steelers' roster in this position.
As the Steelers continue to build their roster for the upcoming season, the addition of Pruitt injects further versatility and experience into their tight end group. His presence promises to complement the team's existing talent pool, fostering competition and innovation within the unit as they prepare to navigate the challenges of the upcoming campaign.
Pruitt's history with Smith runs deep, having played under his guidance during stints with both the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons. This extensive experience undoubtedly speaks volumes about the trust and admiration Smith holds for his newest addition. It's reasonable to assume that Smith's favorable impression of Pruitt played a pivotal role in the decision to bring him on board.
Standing at 6' 2" and weighing 245 pounds, Pruitt brings a robust physical presence to the tight end position, a characteristic that has served him well throughout his decade-long NFL career. His journey has seen him donning the jerseys of several teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, and Houston Texans, before ultimately finding stability within Smith's offensive system.
Notably, Pruitt's statistical trajectory has seen a marked improvement under Smith's tutelage. In 2023 with the Falcons, he recorded nine receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown, building upon his 2022 performance where he tallied 16 receptions, 150 yards, and four touchdowns. Impressively, all 12 of Pruitt's career touchdowns have been scored under Smith's leadership, underscoring the connection between the player and coach.
Steelers' Tight End Room Gets Some Veteran Experience
It will be intriguing to observe the precise strategy Smith and the Steelers have in mind for a player like Pruitt. At 32 years old and without the most prolific track record as a tight end, his inclusion raises questions. Yet, Smith's endorsement suggests a belief in his abilities. Pruitt's seasoned presence is poised to provide invaluable guidance to emerging talents such as Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward, and Pat Freiermuth. Rodney Williams is also under contract.
The addition of Pruitt not only infuses the Steelers' tight end unit with veteran experience but also aligns with Smith's penchant for utilizing tight ends effectively. While Pruitt's arrival may seem modest in scope, the prospect of fresh faces with untapped potential never fails to captivate. Steelers enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing Smith's approach to leveraging the tight end position in the forthcoming 2024 season.
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