The Pittsburgh Steelers' sidelines will look jarringly different next season, as a Mike McCarthy-led coaching staff tries to reinvent the offense and restore the Black and Gold to elite status. Completing such objectives could be challenging in the physically demanding AFC North, but management is depending on the franchise's longtime fixtures to set the tone. Chris Boswell can be included in that group.
While there are many players who command attention before a kicker, a steady leg can obviously have a huge impact on a team's win-loss record. The Steelers recognize the 2024 First-Team All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowl selection as one of the best performers at his position, which is why they signed him to a historic four-year, $28 million contract earlier in May. Boswell is not letting the record payday get to his head, though.
He is embodying the city's blue-collar personality. “I’ve still got to show up and perform every single week,” Boswell told reporters at organized team activities (OTAs), per Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. “My job's on the line every single kick, every single week. I’ve got to keep that mentality and let the rest take care of itself.”
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The 35-year-old, who is now tied with Brandon Aubrey of the Dallas Cowboys for highest-paid placekicker in league history, is focused on maintaining his edge ahead of his 12th campaign with the Steelers. Chris Boswell made 27-of-32 field goal attempts last season and was 9-of-11 from 50-plus-yards out. He owns an 87.7 conversion percentage for his career.
Fans will miss longtime special teams coordinator and Pittsburgh native Danny Smith (now on Tampa Bay Buccaneers), but it sounds like his signature grit will live on through Boswell.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' sidelines will look jarringly different next season, as a Mike McCarthy-led coaching staff tries to reinvent the offense and restore the Black and Gold to elite status. Completing such objectives could be challenging in the physically demanding AFC North, but management is depending on the franchise's longtime fixtures to set the tone.