Steelers Hire James Campen as Offensive Line Coach to Reunite with McCarthy and Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to shape their coaching staff under new head coach Mike McCarthy, making a key hire on Thursday with the addition of James Campen as offensive line coach. The move brings back a familiar partnership, as Campen and McCarthy previously spent over a decade together in Green Bay.

Campen’s tenure with the Packers spanned 2007 to 2018, during which he coached multiple Super Bowl–caliber offensive lines and won Super Bowl XLV over the Steelers in 2010. In his final year in Green Bay, he also held the title of run game coordinator, further expanding his offensive expertise.

Before his coaching career, Campen played center at Tulane and spent eight years in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints and Green Bay Packers, appearing in 67 games. He transitioned into coaching soon after retiring, joining the Packers as an assistant offensive line coach and quality control coach in 2004, eventually rising to lead the offensive line under McCarthy.

Since leaving Green Bay, Campen has held roles with the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans, and Carolina Panthers. His experience across multiple organizations positions him to guide a young Steelers offensive line while reuniting with McCarthy and veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

1. A Proven Track Record

Campen’s reputation is rooted in long-term success and player development. His 12-year tenure with the Packers produced consistently strong and durable offensive line units, which were central to the team’s championship run in 2010. His expertise in both pass protection schemes and the running game, including his role as run game coordinator, gives him a versatile coaching profile suited to modern NFL offenses. Players under his tutelage in Green Bay frequently earned accolades for performance and durability. Beyond his technical skills, Campen’s history with McCarthy demonstrates the value of continuity and trust. McCarthy’s decision to bring him to Pittsburgh reflects confidence in Campen’s ability to implement a system and foster cohesion along the offensive front. Campen’s track record also shows adaptability, having held multiple roles with different organizations while maintaining a focus on player development and unit performance, qualities the Steelers hope will elevate their offensive line.

2. Connection to Aaron Rodgers

A notable aspect of Campen’s hiring is his long-standing relationship with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The two worked together for more than a decade in Green Bay, and Rodgers has publicly praised Campen, calling him “more than just a coach” in a 2021 social media post. Rodgers led the Steelers to a 10–7 record and an AFC North title in 2025, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. However, Pittsburgh’s season ended with a 30–6 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC Wild Card round. Rodgers’ future remains uncertain, as he weighs whether to return for the 2026 season, which would mark his 22nd in the league. The Steelers have reportedly set a one-month deadline for his decision, and Campen’s familiarity with Rodgers could help ease the transition if the veteran quarterback returns. Having a coach who understands Rodgers’ tendencies, leadership style, and communication preferences may prove invaluable in maximizing both individual performance and team cohesion. Campen’s presence provides stability in a key area of the roster as the Steelers look to compete in the AFC.

3. Guiding a Young Offensive Line

Campen inherits a youthful Steelers offensive line stocked through recent drafts. Key pieces include left tackle Broderick Jones (2023 first-round pick), right tackle Troy Fautanu (2024 first-round pick), center Zach Frazier (2024 second-round pick), and guard Mason McCormick (2024 fourth-round pick). The line shows promise but requires experienced coaching to realize its potential, particularly in developing chemistry and minimizing pressures on the quarterback. Campen’s extensive experience with developing offensive linemen in multiple systems positions him well to lead this group. He will join linebackers coach Scott McCurley as part of McCarthy’s staff members with prior experience under him. This continuity and familiarity within the coaching staff are expected to benefit both the players and the broader scheme implementation. Ultimately, Campen’s hiring signals the Steelers’ intent to blend veteran coaching expertise with young talent, aiming to protect their quarterback, enhance the running game, and build a foundation for sustained success in the AFC.