The Pittsburgh Steelers wasted no time diving into their head coaching search after Mike Tomlin stepped down, and the early list of candidates shows they're casting a wide net. But one name, in particular, might be striking the right chord with Steelers fans: Jesse Minter.
Just hours into the process, Pittsburgh requested an interview with Minter, who’s fresh off a strong two-year run as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers. And if you’re looking for a coach who fits the Steelers’ DNA-tough, defensive-minded, and proven-Minter checks a lot of boxes.
Let’s start with the resume. At 42, Minter brings a blend of youth and experience that’s hard to find.
He’s already made a name for himself with back-to-back top-12 defensive finishes in his two seasons calling plays in L.A. In 2025, his defense was one of the stingiest in the league, giving up just 19.8 points per game (8th), 290.6 total yards (7th), and 5.1 yards per play (12th).
Those numbers aren’t just solid-they’re the kind of stats that win games in today’s NFL.
Dig a little deeper, and the advanced metrics back it up. The Chargers ranked 10th in DVOA and 6th in EPA per play under Minter’s guidance.
That’s the kind of efficiency that doesn’t happen by accident. It speaks to a coach who not only understands how to scheme but how to get the most out of his personnel.
And speaking of personnel-Minter didn’t have the benefit of a star-studded roster. Yet he still managed to elevate his group, including a resurgent season from 30-year-old cornerback Donte Jackson, a former Steeler who arguably played the best football of his career in 2025. That’s the kind of coaching impact that turns heads in front offices.
Before his time with the Chargers, Minter spent four years with the Baltimore Ravens, working as a defensive assistant and DBs coach. That kind of AFC North familiarity doesn’t hurt, especially in a division known for its physical, defensive identity. Add in nearly a decade of college coaching experience, and you’ve got a well-rounded candidate who’s seen the game from every angle.
Minter's already generating buzz across the league. He’s reportedly on the radar for multiple teams, including the Ravens, who are preparing for life after John Harbaugh.
But the fit in Pittsburgh feels particularly strong. The Steelers have always leaned toward coaches who bring toughness, discipline, and a clear identity-especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Minter brings all of that, plus a fresh energy that could be exactly what the franchise needs in this next chapter.
There’s still a long way to go in the hiring process, and Pittsburgh is doing its due diligence, with interviews lined up for Rams assistants Nate Scheelhaase and Chris Shula, as well as Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver and Vikings DC Brian Flores. But Jesse Minter is a name to watch closely. If the Steelers are looking for a coach who embodies their tradition while bringing a modern defensive edge, they might not need to look much further.