Patrick Graham faces scrutiny as new Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 9:03 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
Patrick Graham begins his tenure as the Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator amid heightened expectations for the 2026 season. NFL analyst Gerry Dulac notes that Graham faces immediate pressure to evaluate the performance level of the defense under the previous coaching regime. The Steelers struggled defensively last year, allowing nearly 40 percent of opposing drives to result in points and ranking 26th in third-down conversion defense. These defensive lapses forced the team to play 1,112 defensive snaps, the second-most in the league. Graham enters the role with a background under Bill Belichick and must now implement a scheme to maximize the team's existing defensive talent. Analysts remain focused on whether his adjustments will improve scoring efficiency and defensive longevity for the unit.
- •Patrick Graham leads the Pittsburgh Steelers defense following a series of coaching staff changes.
- •The defense ranked 18th in the league last season for points allowed per drive.
- •Steelers opponents converted 43.4% of third-down opportunities during the 2025 season.
- •The team played 1,112 total defensive snaps throughout the previous year.
- 9:03 PMYahoo Sports — Patrick Graham Faces Massive Pressure as Gerry Dulac Reveals What Steelers’ New DC Must Prove
"The Pittsburgh Steelers’ coaching staff has experienced massive changes ahead of the 2026 season. One of the most profound changes it incurred involves Patrick Graham, who now serves as the team’s defensive coordinator. Mike Tomlin has handled the side for many years, leaving a significant gap for Graham to fill. For observers like NFL insider […] The post Patrick Graham Faces Massive Pressure as Gerry Dulac Reveals What Steelers’ New DC Must Prove appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
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