The Pittsburgh Steelers have generated plenty of excitement entering the 2026 NFL season, but ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith believes one major question could determine just how far the team goes. Despite praising the talent on Pittsburgh’s roster, Smith recently expressed concern about the Steelers’ defense, specifically pointing to new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and questioning whether he can elevate the unit beyond average.
Graham arrived in Pittsburgh during the offseason with the difficult task of replacing longtime defensive coordinator Teryl Austin. While Graham has built a solid reputation around the league for his defensive knowledge and adaptability, Smith argued that he has yet to establish himself as one of the NFL’s elite defensive minds.
Speaking about the Steelers, Smith suggested that the team’s championship aspirations depend heavily on whether Graham can maximize a defense loaded with talent. He referred to Graham as an “average” defensive coordinator, explaining that Pittsburgh cannot afford average coaching if it hopes to compete with AFC powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens.
The Steelers have invested heavily on the defensive side of the ball over the years. The roster features perennial stars such as T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Cameron Heyward, and emerging young contributors who are expected to play larger roles this season. On paper, the talent is undeniable.
However, Smith believes talent alone isn’t enough. Modern NFL offenses have become increasingly creative, requiring defensive coordinators to constantly adjust their schemes, disguise coverages, and create pressure through innovative play-calling. In his view, Graham still has to prove he can consistently do that against the league’s best offenses.
To Graham’s credit, his coaching history tells a more balanced story than Smith’s criticism suggests. During previous stops with the Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, and Las Vegas Raiders, Graham earned praise for building flexible defensive systems that adapted to his personnel. While his defenses were not always among the league leaders statistically, they often improved over time as players became more comfortable in his schemes.
The Steelers themselves appear confident in Graham’s abilities. Head coach Mike Tomlin emphasized during the offseason that Graham brings fresh ideas while maintaining the aggressive defensive identity Pittsburgh has long embraced. Players have also spoken positively about his communication and attention to detail throughout training camp.
One factor working in Graham’s favor is the experience within Pittsburgh’s defense. Veteran leaders like Watt and Heyward understand complex defensive concepts and can help younger teammates adjust more quickly. If Graham successfully blends his philosophy with the Steelers’ established culture, the defense could remain one of the NFL’s strongest units.
Of course, expectations in Pittsburgh are always high. The Steelers measure success by playoff victories and Super Bowl contention, not simply finishing with respectable defensive rankings. Every new coordinator faces intense scrutiny, and Graham will be no exception.
Ultimately, Stephen A. Smith’s comments reflect the uncertainty that comes with any coaching change. Until Graham’s defense proves itself during meaningful regular-season games, questions will remain about whether he can guide one of the NFL’s most talented defensive rosters.
For the Steelers, the answer will unfold over the coming months. If Patrick Graham helps Pittsburgh maintain its defensive dominance while adding new wrinkles to the scheme, Smith’s concerns could quickly disappear. But if the unit struggles to meet expectations, the spotlight on Graham will only grow brighter as the season progresses.
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