The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing back a familiar face as they continue to shape their defensive coaching staff. Jason Simmons, who began his NFL journey as a fifth-round pick by the Steelers back in 1998, is set to return to Pittsburgh-this time on the sidelines.
Simmons is expected to take on a prominent role, likely mirroring the position he held most recently with the Washington Commanders as defensive passing game coordinator. While Patrick Graham is locked in as the Steelers' new defensive coordinator, Simmons’ addition signals a continued emphasis on experience and versatility in the secondary.
Simmons has built a strong résumé since hanging up his cleats. After wrapping up a solid playing career that included four seasons in Pittsburgh and six with the Houston Texans, he transitioned into coaching with the Green Bay Packers under Mike McCarthy.
Starting as a defensive assistant, Simmons steadily climbed the ladder to become the team’s secondary coach. That early connection with McCarthy has remained a thread throughout his coaching journey.
He’s since held the defensive pass game coordinator title with the Panthers, Raiders, and most recently, the Commanders. In Washington, Simmons worked under Dan Quinn and earned high marks for his work with the secondary-despite the overall defensive struggles that led to staff changes. His ability to connect with players and scheme against today’s high-powered passing attacks has made him a respected figure in coaching circles.
Now, back in Pittsburgh, Simmons brings a wealth of knowledge and a coaching style shaped by years of experience across multiple franchises. His return to the team that drafted him adds another layer of continuity to a staff that’s being built with a mix of proven leadership and rising talent. With Simmons in the fold, the Steelers are reinforcing their commitment to developing a defense that can keep pace with the modern NFL-fast, flexible, and fundamentally sound.