Defensive Overhaul Under DC Graham
Key Questions
What scheme changes is new DC Graham implementing?
New defensive coordinator Graham is shifting the scheme with additions like CB Jamel Dean, S Brisker, and CB Daylen Everette, while moving Jalen Ramsey to nickel. The single-LB alignment may help address ILB concerns with Queen and Wilson.
Which Steelers players are highlighted for Week 1 debuts?
Pittman and Dean are named among the most anticipated Week 1 debuts under the new defensive system. This comes as the team works to maintain its strong fourth-quarter lead protection record.
How does Graham's track record compare to the Steelers' historical performance?
The Steelers have an 88.6% win rate when leading after three quarters historically, but Graham's prior teams posted only a 67.9% rate in similar situations. This presents a key challenge for the defensive overhaul.
New DC Graham implements scheme shift with key additions: CB Jamel Dean (elite DVOA), S Brisker (trained with Aaron Donald), CB Daylen Everette. Jalen Ramsey moves to nickel. Porter Jr. extension talks ongoing; Asante Samuel Jr. could be trade bait. ILB concerns over Queen's missed tackles and Payton Wilson's coverage issues, but Graham's single-LB scheme may mitigate. Pittman and Dean named most anticipated Week 1 debuts. Challenge: maintaining historic fourth-quarter lead protection (88.6% win rate) vs Graham's poor track record (67.9%).