Steelers players voice optimism for new defensive coordinator

June 02, 2026

Pittsburgh Steelers players shared positive remarks Tuesday about the team's defense and new coordinator Patrick Graham ahead of the 2026 season. Free agent linebacker Kyle Van Noy and safety DeShon Elliott highlighted the roster's talent and versatility.

Kyle Van Noy said Graham is a solid coach who will be great with the Steelers. "He’s got a lot of talent, probably the most talent he’s had since New England," Van Noy said on the Games with Names podcast.

DeShon Elliott praised the addition of Jaquan Brisker and Jalen Ramsey. "It’s good to have another dawg out there," Elliott said via the Steelers YouTube channel. He also applauded Ramsey’s ability to play multiple positions.

Former NFL player Chris Long noted the defensive line’s 2025 struggles prevent him from ranking it among the league’s best units. He cited players like T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward but pointed to the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos as stronger examples.

What people are saying

Initial reactions on X highlight positive fan and analyst expectations for Patrick Graham as Steelers' new DC, citing roster talent and scheme changes, with the source article shared by Steelers Depot.

Kyle Van Noy Confident Patrick Graham Is Going To ‘Be Great’ With Steelers: ‘Got A Lot Of Ballers Over There’ #Steelers #NFL #Pittsburgh https://t.co/QkCMFXxTIu

— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) June 2, 2026

I feel they'll be significantly better on defense because Patrick Graham isn't a moron like a certain DC nor is he stuck in the past schematically like a certain HC. Should get the best out of a talented unit.

— Val Dewar (Stephon Castle ride or die/Knicks in 6) (@the3els) May 30, 2026

Excited to see what Patrick Graham can do with the personnel he has this year.

Graham never really was given much to work with in his previous stops but not only before free agency this #Steelers defense was the best unit on paper he has had, but with additions of Dean,… pic.twitter.com/Ci2Lk6idnX

— Trey Carney (@CarneyMedia) May 18, 2026

Expect big things from Steelers new DC Patrick Graham https://t.co/sxmq5qNZT6

— SteelerNation (@steelernation) June 2, 2026

Definitely want to see how new DC Patrick Graham utilizes their 3 EDGEs. Had some third down packages last year - wonder if the new coaching staff can expand upon that.

Group also has to stay healthy. None of these guys have been pinnacle of health.

— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) June 2, 2026

Sources

• https://steelersdepot.com/2026/06/kyle-van-noy-confident-patrick-graham-going-to-be-great-with-steelers-got-a-lot-of-ballers-over-there/
• https://steelersdepot.com/2026/06/i-applaud-him-deshon-elliott-appreciates-jalen-ramseys-versatility-having-another-dawg-in-jaquan-brisker/
• https://steelersdepot.com/2026/06/chris-long-cant-put-steelers-defensive-line-among-nfls-best-because-of-2025-struggles/