Arthur Smith focused on Steelers as Titans seek interview

Arthur Smith confirmed the Tennessee Titans have requested to interview him for their head coach opening, and he said he is focused on his current role with the Pittsburgh Steelers; NFL rules prohibit an interview until three days after Pittsburgh's wild-card game.

Arthur Smith confirmed that the Tennessee Titans have asked to interview him for their vacant head coach position. He said he is concentrating on his current job with the Pittsburgh Steelers and described outside interest as a distraction. Smith previously served on the Titans' staff from 2011 through 2019 and was the Atlanta Falcons' head coach from 2021 to 2023. He has been the Steelers' offensive coordinator for the past two seasons. Key details: - The Titans reportedly reached out to interview Smith for their head coaching vacancy. - Smith said he is focused on his work with the Steelers and that attention to other opportunities would be a distraction. - NFL protocol means Smith cannot interview with Tennessee until three days after Pittsburgh's wild-card game; the interview would be virtual if the Steelers win. - Smith worked for the Titans earlier in his career and is also the son of the late FedEx founder Fred Smith, a noted Tennessee connection. - Tennessee general manager Mike Borgonzi said there is no set timeline to hire a coach, and the team has sought permission to speak with multiple candidates, including other playoff coordinators. Summary: Smith confirmed Tennessee has sought to interview him but emphasized he is prioritizing his current role with the Steelers. The earliest formal interview would be three days after Pittsburgh's wild-card game, and the Titans' general manager said the club has no set hiring timeline.