The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to reshape their coaching staff, making five more additions official on Wednesday - a mix of familiar names and fresh faces that signal a clear direction for the franchise heading into the next chapter.
Among the headline moves are Brian Angelichio stepping in as offensive coordinator, Danny Crossman taking over as special teams coordinator, and Joe Whitt Jr. joining as secondary coach. These were already expected, but now they're locked in. The team also announced Domata Peko as the new defensive line coach and Pat Reilly as the defensive quality control coach.
Let’s break down what these hires mean - and why fans should be paying attention.
Brian Angelichio: Veteran Voice for the Offense
Angelichio, 53, brings over a decade of NFL experience, and while this is his first shot at a full offensive coordinator role, he’s been steadily climbing the ladder. His journey began in 2012 with the Buccaneers as tight ends coach, and he’s since held the same position with the Browns, Packers, Commanders, and Panthers. Most recently, he served as tight ends coach and passing game coordinator for the Vikings.
What stands out about Angelichio is his adaptability. He’s worked under a wide range of offensive minds and systems, which should serve him well as he takes the reins of Pittsburgh’s offense.
The Steelers are clearly betting on his experience developing tight ends and his recent work helping shape the Vikings’ passing game. If he can bring that same creativity and structure to Pittsburgh, it could be a much-needed spark for an offense that’s struggled to find rhythm in recent seasons.
Joe Whitt Jr.: A Secondary Specialist with a Lot to Prove
Whitt, 47, has been around the NFL block - and then some. His coaching roots trace back to Auburn in 2000, and after college stints at The Citadel and Louisville, he made his NFL debut with the Falcons in 2007. From there, he spent over a decade with the Packers, climbing from defensive quality control coach to cornerbacks coach and eventually to defensive passing game coordinator.
Whitt’s résumé includes stops with the Browns, Falcons, and Cowboys before following Dan Quinn to Washington in 2024. That stint, however, ended on a rough note.
In 2025, the Commanders' defense ranked dead last in total defense and passing defense, and near the bottom in scoring and rushing defense. Whitt lost play-calling duties late in the year.
Still, his reputation as a teacher and technician in the secondary remains strong. The Steelers are likely hoping that a more focused role - coaching the secondary rather than coordinating the entire defense - will allow Whitt to get back to what he does best: developing defensive backs and tightening up coverage schemes.
Domata Peko: From the Trenches to the Sideline
One of the more intriguing hires is Domata Peko, who takes over as defensive line coach. Peko spent the bulk of his 15-year NFL career as a rock in the middle of the Bengals’ defensive front. Known for his toughness, leadership, and ability to anchor against the run, Peko brings a player’s perspective and a physical mindset to the role.
This is his first NFL coaching job, and while that comes with a learning curve, his experience in the trenches - especially in the AFC North - gives him instant credibility. Expect him to bring a no-nonsense, high-energy approach to a Steelers defensive line that has long been a cornerstone of the team’s identity.
Pat Reilly: Quality Control, Quiet Impact
Rounding out the additions is Pat Reilly as defensive quality control coach. While this role doesn’t grab headlines, it’s a vital part of the coaching infrastructure.
QC coaches are often the glue behind the scenes - breaking down film, identifying tendencies, and helping implement game plans. Reilly’s addition adds another layer of support to a defensive staff that’s clearly being rebuilt with purpose.
The Bigger Picture
These hires reflect a Steelers organization that’s not just tinkering around the edges - they’re making foundational changes. Bringing in experienced voices like Angelichio and Whitt suggests a desire for more structure and expertise, while adding a respected former player like Peko shows a commitment to culture and toughness.
The Steelers have long prided themselves on stability, but after recent seasons that fell short of expectations, this offseason is shaping up to be a pivot point. The new-look staff will be tasked with reviving an offense that’s lacked consistency and a defense that’s shown flashes but needs more cohesion.
Time will tell how these moves pan out, but one thing’s clear: Pittsburgh is not standing pat. They’re building a staff with experience, grit, and upside - a group that looks ready to roll up its sleeves and get to work.