Three potential OC candidates for Steelers if they move on from Matt Canada

The Steelers struggled on offense in 2022, leading to speculation the team could seek a replacement for offensive coordinator Matt Canada. Pittsburgh ranked 26th in points per game (18.1) and scored 20 or more points in only seven games.

Per The Athletic, the team hasn't decided on potential changes on their coaching staff yet because head coach Mike Tomlin is dealing with an undisclosed personal matter.

Here are three potential candidates for offensive coordinator if the Steelers move on from Canada.

Eagles QB coach Brian Johnson

Johnson is instrumental in the development of Jalen Hurts, an MVP candidate. In his first season with Hurts in 2021, the quarterback became only the eighth QB in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 750 rushing yards. 

Before the Eagles, Johnson led a prolific offense at the University of Florida as offensive coordinator and QB coach. The Gators included tight end Kyle Pitts, now with the Falcons, and Dameon Pierce, a running back with the Texans. During his tenure, the Gators had a potent passing offense. 

Johnson could accelerate the development of  QB Kenny Pickett, who threw for only seven touchdowns in 12 starts as a rookie. 

Former Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury

In early January, Kingsbury, a journeyman NFL QB, was fired as Cardinals HC. He began his career in Houston with the Texans as an offensive quality control coach before heading to the college ranks to Texas A&M as an offensive coordinator and then Texas Tech as head coach for five seasons. 

With the Red Raiders, Kingsbury coached Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City superstar.

Despite his head-coaching struggles, Kingsbury has a wonderful offensive mind. Calling only offense under Mike Tomlin could suit him well. Besides Pickett, the Steelers have promising playmakers Pat Freiermuth (tight end), Diontae Johnson (WR), George Pickens (WR) and Najee Harris (RB). 

Bills QB coach Joe Brady

Brady rose through the coaching ranks after his 2019 national title season at LSU, where he served as passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach. That team featured arguably the best offense in college football history with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.

In 2020, the Panthers hired him as offensive coordinator, but other than running back Christian McCaffrey and wideout D.J. Moore, he had few weapons. Carolina fired him late in the 2021 season.

Harris would benefit from Brady, who has found ways for running backs Devin Singletary (at Buffalo) and Clyde Edwards-Helaire (at LSU) to get into space and make plays.