The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t wasting any time reshaping their coaching staff under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Just days after bringing in Adam Henry to lead the wide receivers room, the team is reportedly on the verge of another significant addition - veteran defensive coach Patrick Graham is close to being named the Steelers’ new defensive coordinator.
Graham, 47, brings a wealth of experience and a defensive résumé that spans multiple franchises. Most recently, he served as the Raiders’ defensive coordinator for the past three seasons, where he helped guide a unit that steadily improved despite a revolving door of personnel and scheme changes.
Before that, Graham ran the defense in Miami in 2019 and then with the Giants from 2020 to 2021. Across each stop, he’s built a reputation as a smart, adaptable coach who knows how to tailor a defense to its strengths.
This move signals a clear direction for McCarthy as he builds out his staff: experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of NFL systems. Graham checks all those boxes. He’s coached in both 3-4 and 4-3 fronts, worked with Pro Bowlers and young talent alike, and has shown the ability to adjust in-game - a trait that will be crucial in the AFC North, where matchups are often decided in the trenches and on the margins.
While the deal isn’t finalized yet, all signs point to Graham joining McCarthy in Pittsburgh. If it happens, it’ll be a reunion of sorts - both coaches have long histories in the league and share a similar approach when it comes to preparation and game-planning. For a Steelers defense that’s already built around cornerstone players, adding Graham’s strategic mind could elevate them to another level.
The Steelers are clearly moving with purpose this offseason. With McCarthy at the helm, the coaching staff is beginning to take shape - and it’s looking like one built for both stability and impact.