Matt Canada spent his year away from coaching studying the game at all levels

Training camp is underway! Although the Steelers don’t take the field for an official team practice for almost another two weeks, having players on the field for workouts and meetings has the process of the 2020 season underway. One of the added joys of the team gathering together is increased media availability of both players and coaches.

After Ben Roethlisberger spoke with the media Tuesday, new quarterbacks coach Matt Canada was available for questioning for the first time since joining the Steelers in January.

Transitioning to the professional ranks after holding various positions in the NCAA such as quarterbacks coach, offensive coordinator, and interim head coach, Canada spent 2019 away from coaching while waiting for his next opportunity.

So what did Canada do with his time away? According to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, a combination of work and play.

As most know, the life of an NFL or NCAA coach can be very demanding on one’s family. Putting in long hours every day throughout the season and beyond can take its toll. Naturally, Canada used his time away to do some family activities he may not have otherwise had the time and opportunity to do.

But football was not out of the picture.

Canada also spent time diving further into the game at both the college and professional levels. According to Steelers.com’s Teresa Varley, Canada split his time in dissecting both the college and pro games.

It still remains to be seen exactly how much the time spent studying increased Canada’s football knowledge and could impact his coaching, or even the level of influence Canada will have on the Steelers’ offense in 2020. While some look at Canada as the “offensive coordinator in waiting” others are not ready to crown Canada’s influence on the Steelers offense in any way.

Most importantly, Canada is happy to be a part of the Pittsburgh Steelers and seems to be focused on making the team as competitive as possible while building towards winning championships.

Stay tuned to BTSC as coverage of interviews from players and coaches continue.