The Steelers have officially named Patrick Graham as their new defensive coordinator, bringing in a seasoned NFL mind with nearly two decades of experience on the sidelines.
Graham arrives in Pittsburgh after a four-year run as the Raiders’ defensive coordinator, a stretch that saw him navigate multiple coaching changes and help stabilize a unit that had its share of ups and downs. He originally joined Las Vegas in 2022 under Josh McDaniels and stayed on through the transitions to Antonio Pierce and then Pete Carroll. With Carroll recently let go after just one season, Graham now makes the move to Pittsburgh, where he’ll be tasked with leading one of the league’s most tradition-rich defenses.
This hire adds another experienced voice to Mike McCarthy’s staff, and it comes after Graham was in the mix for both the Dolphins’ head coaching job and the Commanders’ defensive coordinator role. That kind of interest speaks to the respect he’s earned around the league - not just as a defensive mind, but as a leader.
Graham’s résumé is deep. Before his time in Vegas, he served as the defensive coordinator in Miami in 2019 and with the Giants from 2020 to 2021.
Earlier in his career, he spent seven seasons with the Patriots in a variety of roles, cutting his teeth in one of the NFL’s most demanding environments. He’s also logged time as an assistant with the Packers, giving him a broad perspective shaped by some of the league’s most storied franchises.
Now, he takes over a Steelers defense that’s long been defined by its physicality and playmaking - and one that will look to maintain its identity while evolving under Graham’s guidance. With his experience and adaptability, Graham brings a steady hand and a fresh perspective to a unit that’s aiming to stay among the NFL’s elite.