Patrick Graham, the Pittsburgh Steelers' new defensive coordinator, stated during a press conference that he will call the plays for the defense. He emphasized building the unit around the existing players and earning a place in the team's storied tradition. Graham replaces Teryl Austin amid major staff changes following Mike Tomlin's resignation.
Patrick Graham addressed reporters on Friday, affirming his authority over the Steelers' defense. 'Yes, sir, as far as I know. Yes, sir,' he replied when asked if the defense is his to run, including play-calling. While aligning with head coach Mike McCarthy's vision, Graham confirmed he is 'calling the plays, calling the defenses and putting together the scheme.' This marks a shift from his time under Mike Tomlin, where he had significant input, now with greater autonomy under McCarthy, who handles offensive plays. Mike McCarthy will call plays for the Steelers’ offense, leaving Graham to lead the defense fully, replacing Teryl Austin who departed with most of Tomlin’s staff after Tomlin's resignation. Patrick Graham plans to tailor the scheme to the roster rather than impose a rigid system. 'We’re doing it really to fit the players that are here,' he said. He expressed excitement about the group's potential, noting, 'I don’t have to come up with any gimmicks here at Pittsburgh. There doesn’t have to be any slogans. The Steel Curtain. I told the players when I first met with them, we’re all trying to earn our position in that tradition in 2026.' The defense features talents like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Cam Heyward, Joey Porter Jr., Patrick Queen, and Payton Wilson. Graham prioritizes a strong defensive line to protect linebackers like Queen and Wilson from traffic. Players already show buy-in; Joey Porter Jr. recently said Graham will 'make everything work how it’s supposed to.' The unit takes the field under Graham for the first time on Monday.
