The Steelers are continuing to shape their 2026 coaching staff, and their latest addition brings a fresh face with intriguing upside. Ramon Chinyoung, most recently the assistant offensive line coach for the Dallas Cowboys, is headed to Pittsburgh to take over as the new running backs coach - stepping into the role previously held by Eddie Faulkner.
This move might raise eyebrows at first glance - an offensive line coach transitioning to the running backs room - but when you look closer, it starts to make a lot of sense. Chinyoung’s background is rooted in the trenches, and that’s exactly where the run game is born. His experience coaching offensive linemen could offer a unique perspective to Pittsburgh’s backfield, especially in how backs read blocks and set up runs.
Chinyoung’s NFL journey began in 2022 with the Denver Broncos as an offensive quality control coach, before joining Mike McCarthy’s staff in Dallas in 2023. He started as a hybrid assistant offensive line/quality control coach and by 2025, had fully transitioned into the assistant offensive line role.
During his time in Dallas, Chinyoung was part of an offense that consistently moved the chains. In 2025, the Cowboys ranked second in the league in total yards per game and seventh in points scored - a testament to an offense that found balance and rhythm.
That success wasn’t a fluke either. He was also on staff in 2023 when Dallas led the league in scoring.
Chinyoung’s time in Dallas gave him exposure to a wide range of talent. He worked with backs like Rico Dowdle, Javonte Williams, Ezekiel Elliott, and Tony Pollard - a group that spans power, speed, and versatility. On the line, he helped coach Pro Bowlers Zack Martin and Tyler Smith, players who’ve been anchors in one of the NFL’s more consistent offensive fronts.
Now in Pittsburgh, Chinyoung will be tasked with developing a young, dynamic running back room. Jaylen Warren has shown flashes of being a tough, downhill runner with surprising burst.
Kenneth Gainwell brings a change-of-pace element and pass-catching ability, while Kaleb Johnson adds depth and potential. It’s a group that’s still finding its identity, and Chinyoung’s ability to bridge the gap between the offensive line and the backfield could be exactly what this unit needs.
This hire signals a continued emphasis by the Steelers on building a cohesive, physical offensive identity. And with Chinyoung’s resume - one that blends technical line work with exposure to diverse backfield talent - he’s bringing a toolbox that could help unlock more consistency and production from Pittsburgh’s ground game in 2026.