Pittsburgh Steelers Bring In Former Saints Star Jahri Evans as Assistant Offensive Line Coach
The Pittsburgh Steelers' transition under new head coach Mike McCarthy continues to gain momentum with another significant addition to the coaching staff. In a move that strengthens their offensive leadership, former New Orleans Saints standout and Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist Jahri Evans is set to join McCarthy's team in Pittsburgh.
A Strategic Reunion With Proven Experience
According to multiple reports from reliable NFL sources, Evans will assume the role of assistant offensive line coach for the Steelers. This appointment marks a meaningful reunion between Evans and McCarthy, who previously worked together during the final season of Evans' playing career. Back in 2017, when Evans was with the Green Bay Packers, McCarthy served as his head coach, establishing a professional relationship that has now evolved into this coaching collaboration.
Evans brings an impressive playing pedigree to his new position. Widely celebrated as one of the most accomplished offensive linemen in New Orleans Saints history, his career achievements speak volumes about his understanding of the game. Drafted in the fourth round back in 2006, Evans developed into a foundational piece of the Saints' formidable offense for over a decade, contributing significantly to their offensive dominance during that period.
From Playing Excellence to Coaching Development
During his illustrious playing tenure with the Saints, Evans earned numerous accolades that underscore his expertise. He received six Pro Bowl selections and was honored with four first-team All-Pro distinctions, recognition reserved for the league's elite performers. Perhaps most notably, Evans was an integral part of the Saints team that captured victory in Super Bowl XLIV, giving him championship experience that he can now impart to Steelers players.
Following his retirement from active play, Evans embarked on his coaching journey by returning to the Saints organization in 2022. He began as a coaching intern, demonstrating dedication and gradually ascending through the ranks. Over the past season, he served as the assistant offensive line coach for New Orleans, where his steady development and football intelligence earned him respect as a promising young coaching talent within the league.
Building a Trusted Coaching Foundation
Since being appointed to replace longtime Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, McCarthy has moved deliberately to assemble his coaching staff. The addition of Evans reveals a clear pattern in McCarthy's approach: he is prioritizing coaches and former players with whom he has established relationships and whom he trusts implicitly. This strategy suggests McCarthy values familiarity and proven working dynamics as he constructs his coaching team in Pittsburgh.
Evans' existing knowledge of McCarthy's coaching philosophy and system likely played a substantial role in this hiring decision. Their previous collaboration in Green Bay created a foundation of mutual understanding that has apparently endured through the years, making Evans a natural fit for McCarthy's vision in Pittsburgh.
Addressing Offensive Priorities in Pittsburgh
The Steelers are currently undergoing significant changes to their offensive coaching structure following recent organizational shifts. With new leadership taking shape, strengthening the offensive line emerges as a primary objective for the team. This focus becomes particularly crucial as Pittsburgh aims to stabilize their offensive attack in preparation for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
Evans' impending Hall of Fame recognition adds another layer of credibility to his coaching profile. As a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, with the official announcement anticipated shortly, his decorated playing career provides immediate respect and authority when working with offensive linemen. Players are more likely to embrace coaching from someone who has achieved the highest levels of success at their position.
This strategic hire benefits the Steelers organization by providing both valuable experience and coaching stability. Evans understands what excellence requires at the professional level, having been a key component of one of the NFL's most dynamic offenses during his playing prime. His insights into technique, preparation, and performance at the highest competitive level will be invaluable assets to Pittsburgh's offensive line development.
As McCarthy continues to finalize his coaching staff, the signing of Evans signals his commitment to building a robust foundation, particularly in the critical trenches where games are often decided. The Steelers' new coaching framework is gradually taking shape ahead of the 2026 season, with additional staff appointments expected in the coming weeks as Pittsburgh prepares for this new era under Mike McCarthy's leadership.
