Smith says he had a conversation with the university about their coaching vacancy where he played on the offensive line in the early 2000s. Smith's coaching career started there in Chapel Hill as a graduate assistant in 2006. He says the university reached out to him about the job, but says he doesn't plan on leaving Pittsburgh anytime soon.

Sitting comfortably atop the AFC North with an impressive 8-3 record, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive evolution has been a beacon of hope for fans and analysts alike. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith recently found himself at the center of speculation after a potential connection with the University of North Carolina emerged.

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith confirmed Thursday that North Carolina reached out to him about its coaching vacancy.

People cast a wide net and then some narratives get out of control," Smith said. North Carolina fired head coach Mack Brown and has opened its search. Smith’s name was quickly thrown out as a potential candidate,

Arthur Smith of the Steelers addressed rumors about a coaching role at UNC but emphasized his happiness with his current position.

A report came out on Wednesday stating that North Carolina was eyeing Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith to replace Mack Brown, who it fired on Tuesday after six years as the program's head football coach.

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith was pegged as a top candidate for the open head coach at the University of North Carolina by On3’s Andy Staples on Tuesday. North Carolina is Smith’s alma mater.

Arthur Smith said that his alma mater North Carolina "reached out" to him, but that his focus is on "one of the best jobs in football" with Steelers.