Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Steelers Hire Jahri Evans as Assistant Offensive Line Coach
1/30/2026, 11:52:18 PM
Key Details of the Hiring
The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially hired Jahri Evans as their assistant offensive line coach, reuniting him with head coach Mike McCarthy and offensive line coach James Campen. This move was reported by NFL insider Aaron Wilson on January 30, 2026. Evans, a former All-Pro guard and finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, previously served as the assistant offensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints, where he spent four seasons after retiring as a player in 2017. His coaching career began with the Saints in 2022, progressing from a preseason intern to an offensive assistant and then to his most recent role.
Background and Context
Jahri Evans, a Philadelphia native, played college football at Bloomsburg University before being drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He spent the majority of his 12-year NFL career with the Saints, earning six Pro Bowl selections and four first-team All-Pro honors. Evans was instrumental in the Saints' victory in Super Bowl XLIV and was inducted into the Saints Ring of Honor in 2024. His final playing season was with the Green Bay Packers under McCarthy in 2017, which established a connection that has now influenced his coaching career.
Coaching Staff Changes
Evans' hiring comes as part of a broader restructuring of the Steelers' coaching staff under McCarthy, who was introduced as head coach on January 27, 2026. Alongside Evans, the Steelers have also brought in James Campen as the offensive line coach and Ramon Chinyoung as the running backs coach. The Steelers are looking to enhance their offensive line, which has seen significant investment in recent drafts, and Evans' experience is expected to be beneficial in developing the team's young talent.
Criticism and Opposition
While Evans' hiring is seen as a positive move for the Steelers, it also represents a loss for the Saints, where he was a respected mentor for young offensive linemen. Critics may argue that Evans' transition is a lateral move rather than a promotion, as he retains the same title he held with New Orleans. This aspect raises questions about the motivations behind the move and its implications for both teams.
Official Statements & Responses
The Steelers have not yet released an official statement regarding Evans' hiring. However, reports indicate that his addition is aimed at strengthening the coaching staff and improving the performance of the offensive line. The Steelers' commitment to enhancing their coaching capabilities is evident in their recent hires, including Campen, who has a long history of coaching offensive linemen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Evans’ hiring likely means the Steelers are moving on from Isaac Williams, who was the team’s assistant offensive line coach from 2022-2025.” — Aaron Wilson, NFL Insider
- “This strategic move marks a significant moment in Evans’ career, especially as he gears up for potential induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026.” — Sports Analyst
What's Next
As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming NFL season, Evans will be tasked with developing a young offensive line that includes players like center Zach Frazier and right guard Mason McCormick. The impact of his coaching will be closely monitored as the team aims to improve its performance on the field.
