Former Steelers draft pick Derwin Gray called out the poor Steelers coaching, specifically former offensive line coach Shaun Sarrett, who is…
Pittsburgh, PA— Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Derwin Gray, a 2019 seventh-round draft pick, has publicly criticized the team’s coaching staff, specifically former offensive line coach Shaun Sarrett, for what he describes as poor coaching and lack of player development during his time with the organization.
Gray’s Frustrations with Steelers Coaching
Gray, who spent two seasons with the Steelers before being waived in 2020, voiced his concerns on social media, pointing out that the coaching staff, particularly Sarrett, failed to properly develop young offensive linemen. He claims that Sarrett’s approach hindered the progress of players and may have played a role in the Steelers’ long-standing struggles with offensive line consistency.
“Some of us were never given the tools to succeed,” Gray stated in a recent post. “How can you expect young linemen to thrive if they aren’t coached the right way? We were left figuring things out on our own.”
Sarrett, who was promoted to offensive line coach in 2019 after serving as an assistant under legendary Steelers O-line coach Mike Munchak, lasted just two seasons in the role before being replaced in 2021. His tenure coincided with a decline in the Steelers’ offensive line performance, which struggled to provide consistent protection for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and create openings for the run game.
Steelers’ Offensive Line Woes
Gray’s comments reignite a long-running debate among Steelers fans about the team’s inability to maintain a dominant offensive line since Munchak’s departure in 2019. The unit, once a staple of the franchise’s offensive success, has seen a noticeable drop in performance, contributing to issues in both the passing and rushing attacks.
Former Steelers linemen and analysts have echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the lack of proper coaching and development has led to frequent struggles. While Sarrett had years of experience with the Steelers, critics believe he failed to uphold the high standards established by his predecessor.
Gray’s NFL Journey and the Aftermath
After leaving Pittsburgh, Gray had brief stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans, but his NFL career never fully took off. While his remarks may stir controversy, they shed light on the importance of strong coaching in a player’s development.
The Steelers, now under offensive line coach Pat Meyer, hope to rebuild their offensive front. Whether Gray’s criticisms reflect lingering issues within the organization remains to be seen, but his comments certainly add fuel to the conversation.