The Pittsburgh Steelers continue building their coaching staff as former Washington Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. joins as assistant head coach/secondary coach.
The 47-year-old enters the city of bridges with a wealth of NFL experience, including extensive time under Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. A Super Bowl champion in 2011, Whitt has been in the big leagues since 2007, with roles ranging from defensive backs coach to defensive coordinator.
Steelers bolster defensive staff with experienced piece
The announcement came on Wednesday
as NFL insider Tom Pelissero broke the news via an X post.
“The Steelers are hiring former Commanders DC Joe Whitt Jr. as assistant head coach/secondary coach, sources say,” said Pelissero. “Whitt, 47, spent 11 seasons on Mike McCarthy’s staff with the Packers. Now, they’re reunited in Pittsburgh.”
As stated by Pelissero, Whitt reunites with McCarthy in Pittsburgh, where the two will work closely together. Whitt’s experience is not limited to the defensive side of the ball; he also served in pass game coordination throughout his career.
Whitt has experience in the AFC North as well, serving as the Cleveland Browns’ defensive backs coach in 2019. That season, Cleveland’s defense allowed the seventh fewest passing yards to opponents (3,470).
During his time in Green Bay, the Auburn alumnus worked with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. With the veteran yet to decide on his return, the addition of Whitt could potentially have an influence.
McCarthy continues to influence coaching staff decisions, as a combination of experience and familiarity is expected to propel the Steelers in 2026.
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