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Steelers' Patrick Graham Tendency Changes Everything for T.J. Watt, Pass Rush
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- Steelers' Patrick Graham Tendency Changes Everything for T.J. Watt, Pass Rush
If there was one move Pittsburgh Steelers fans overwhelmingly supported, it was the departure of defensive coordinator Teryl Austin . Austin is a respected NFL coach who helped restore the Steelers' reputation for forcing turnovers. However, his overall performance as Pittsburgh 's defensive coordinator consistently fell short of expectations. New head coach Mike McCarthy responded by hiring one of the more intriguing defensive minds available: Patrick Graham . At first glance, Graham may appear to be just another familiar face added to McCarthy's staff.
However, Graham spent seven seasons learning under one of football's greatest defensive minds, Bill Belichick . He has served in multiple defensive coordinator roles and coached several talented units throughout his career. While those defenses were not always dominant, Graham now inherits the most talented group he has worked with to date. His coaching philosophy will not only bring a fresh perspective to Pittsburgh's defense, but it could also help revive T.J. Watt and elevate the Steelers' pass rush.
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Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) scrambles against Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) during the second half of an AFC Wild Card Round game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Imagesreuters.com,2026:newsml_MT1USATODAY27993541:1572957806
Pushing Watt Out of His Comfort Zone
If any defensive player needed this change, it is Watt. Although he enjoyed some productive seasons under Austin, opposing offenses understood that Austin rarely used creative pressure packages. His blitz designs often became predictable, and his deployment of Watt remained relatively straightforward. Graham, by contrast, adapts his schemes to fit his personnel and consistently finds different ways to create defensive opportunities.
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Watt should benefit from this approach both schematically and strategically. Graham is likely to move Watt around the formation and incorporate him into a wider variety of pressure looks. During Watt's dominant 2021 campaign, former defensive coordinator Keith Butler occasionally aligned him as a stand-up linebacker over the A-gap to help address Pittsburgh's struggles against the run.
Graham will likely identify similar opportunities on film and use them to create favorable matchups for Watt. Not only would that challenge Watt in new ways, but it would also maximize his ability to impact games.
Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Imagesreuters.com,2025:newsml_MT1USATODAY26940262:1243179763
Using the Defense's Strengths to Its Advantage
The Steelers' defense performs at its highest level when it generates consistent pressure, and Graham will quickly recognize that while evaluating his personnel. He also has the luxury of working with talented cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr. and Jamel Dean . Both are excellent fits for his preferred press-corner Cover 2 concepts. However, Graham is not tied to a single scheme. Like his secondary, he values flexibility.
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That versatility extends to Jalen Ramsey, whom Graham views as a defensive chess piece . Limiting Ramsey to a traditional two-high safety role would fail to capitalize on his unique skill set. Instead, Graham can move him around the formation and create matchup advantages while still maintaining structural integrity on the back end.
That flexibility should also benefit the pass rush. By mixing coverages, incorporating blitzes, and designing creative stunt packages, Graham can create more opportunities for Pittsburgh's front seven to attack opposing offenses.
There are plenty of reasons for Steelers fans, and Watt, to feel optimistic. Graham's track record suggests he can bring the schematic creativity and adaptability that Pittsburgh's defense has been missing.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jun 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
