Steelers to Interview Cowboys’ Lunda Wells for Offensive Coordinator Role Under Mike McCarthy

The Pittsburgh Steelers are moving forward with hiring their new coaching staff following the announcement of Mike McCarthy as the team’s head coach. One of the key decisions involves filling the offensive coordinator role, a critical position to support McCarthy’s offensive strategy.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers plan to interview Dallas Cowboys tight ends coach Lunda Wells for the offensive coordinator position this week. Wells has a proven working relationship with McCarthy, having served under him in Dallas for five years, which highlights a familiarity that could benefit the Steelers’ offensive system.

Lunda Wells’ Coaching Background

Wells joined the Dallas Cowboys coaching staff in 2020 and has built a solid reputation as a tight ends coach. His experience working alongside McCarthy in Dallas is particularly valuable, given their extended collaboration. Moreover, Wells recently interviewed for the Washington Commanders’ offensive coordinator job, signaling his rising profile in NFL coaching circles.

Interestingly, Wells is also serving as the head coach for the West team in the East-West Shrine Game, a notable college all-star event, which further illustrates his growing coaching responsibility and leadership experience.

Implications for the Steelers’ Offensive Staff

While Wells is expected to be interviewed for the offensive coordinator role, it’s important to note that Mike McCarthy intends to retain play-calling duties on game days. This means Wells’ role would likely focus on game planning, developing the offense, and supporting McCarthy, rather than handling in-game play calls.

This structure could offer a blend of McCarthy’s established strategic vision with Wells’ fresh input on offensive coaching, potentially leading to a more dynamic and cohesive unit. It also highlights McCarthy’s desire to maintain control over the team’s offensive execution while building a strong supporting staff.

Key Points on Steelers’ Offensive Coordinator Search

1. Lunda Wells is the leading candidate for the Steelers’ offensive coordinator position.
2. Wells has five years of coaching experience under Mike McCarthy with the Dallas Cowboys.
3. McCarthy will remain the offensive play-caller despite the hire.
4. Wells recently interviewed for a similar role with the Washington Commanders.
5. He is currently head coach for the West team at the East-West Shrine Game.

The Steelers’ front office and McCarthy are clearly targeting candidates who align with their offensive philosophy and team culture. Wells’ experience and existing rapport with McCarthy make him a logical fit as the Steelers seek to revamp their offensive coaching staff.

As the interview process unfolds, the Steelers’ decision on the offensive coordinator will be crucial for setting the tone of their offense moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this hire shapes Pittsburgh’s approach in the seasons ahead.