Patrick Graham’s start in Pittsburgh has already taken a sharp turn.
The former Raiders defensive coordinator arrived with a strong reputation and landed the Steelers’ DC job before the 2026 season, but the first month has brought more turbulence than momentum. Pittsburgh opened with a solid showing, holding the Falcons to 13 points in Week 1 and the Patriots to 20 in Week 2.
Since then, though, the defense has slid. The Bengals put up 30 in Week 3, and the Browns added 27 on Thursday night.
That latest outing only added to the pressure around Graham. Cameras on Thursday night appeared to catch star edge rusher T.J.
Watt erupting on a headset aimed at the first-year defensive coordinator. For anyone reading lips, the message looked plenty clear.
SM Highlights on X (formerly Twitter): “T.J. Watt To His New Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham:”Call The Fcking Plays Better, What The Fck Man” pic.twitter.com/SpByXydpbz / X”
T.J. Watt To His New Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham:”Call The Fcking Plays Better, What The Fck Man” pic.twitter.com/SpByXydpbz
Graham’s run with the Raiders had its own share of strain, especially in the final years of his contract, but much of that was tied to the dysfunction around him under Josh McDaniels, Antonio Pierce and Pete Carroll. Even so, he managed to leave after the 2025 season with his reputation mostly intact, which is part of why he remained a strong head coaching candidate before taking the Steelers job.
Now the situation in Pittsburgh is looking less settled by the week. The article frames the Raiders as no longer the organization in the rougher spot, and points to the Steelers’ own instability as the bigger concern.
There’s also the larger issue hanging over the season: the pairing of Aaron Rodgers, likely in his final NFL season, with head coach Mike McCarthy. That setup already has the feel of something that could go sideways fast, and Thursday night may have been another warning sign.
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The rankings also created a little extra buzz at the top, especially with the Seahawks sliding to No. 6 after their first loss and Brock Purdy drawing praise for what he has done so far. For the Raiders, the placement is a reminder that their start has earned attention beyond the AFC West, even as the bigger conversation around the early-season hierarchy continues to revolve around who belongs near the very top. [Read more 🡒]