# Steelers DC Patrick Graham Gets High Praise

> Chris Simms calls Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham 'one of the best there is' after Pittsburgh's defense ranks sixth in NFL.
- Title: Steelers DC Patrick Graham Gets High Praise · Steelers Depot
- Summary: Chris Simms calls Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham 'one of the best there is' after Pittsburgh's defense ranks sixth in NFL.
- Keywords: pittsburgh steelers, patrick graham, chris simms, unbuttoned podcast, steelers defense, nfl sacks, defensive coordinator, mike tomlin, nfl, Steelers Depot
- Source: Steelers Depot — https://steelersdepot.com/2026/11/one-of-the-best-there-is-chris-simms-has-high-praise-for-steelers-dc-patrick-graham
- Author: Troy Montgomery
- Published: 2026-11-05T23:30:55+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: pittsburgh steelers, patrick graham, chris simms, unbuttoned podcast, steelers defense, nfl sacks, defensive coordinator, mike tomlin, sports, nfl
## Steelers Defense Struggles in 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers defense finished 26th in the league during 2025 despite heavy investment.
## Graham's Defensive Impact
Patrick Graham's defense ranks sixth in NFL and leads league in sacks after hiring.
## Chris Simms' Praise
Chris Simms called Patrick Graham 'a hell of a defensive coach' and 'one of the best there is'.

> Patrick Graham is a hell of a defensive coach. One of the best there is out here. He’s got the ability and the no-ego to go, 'Mike Tomlin did this on defense and it worked for you guys? We’ll do it, too. That makes too much sense. I get it. That’s great to add into my defense, and then I can add what I always do and make it all work together that way.'
## Graham's Coaching Background
Patrick Graham has coached in NFL since 2009 with stints at Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, and Las Vegas Raiders.
## Early Season Challenges
The Steelers faced speed bumps starting the season, culminating in Week 4 against Cleveland Browns.
## Defensive Turnaround
After Week 4, the Steelers defense has allowed only two touchdowns in last three games.
## Player Trust in Graham
Several Steelers players now trust Patrick Graham more after his arrival.
## Graham's Positive Impact
Patrick Graham's system has improved the Steelers defense significantly since early season.
## Steelers Defense Transformation
The Steelers defense is now one of the NFL's best units with strong performance in recent games.
## Key takeaway

Chris Simms praised Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham for transforming the team's defense into one of the NFL's best units.