Former Commanders DC Joe Whitt Jr. Hired by Steelers

Whitt joins new Steelers staff under head coach Mike McCarthy

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Joe Whitt Jr., the former defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, has been hired by the Pittsburgh Steelers as their new assistant head coach and secondary coach. Whitt previously worked with new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham during the 2018 season with the Green Bay Packers.

Why it matters

Whitt's hiring by the Steelers represents an opportunity for him to continue his NFL coaching career after a difficult two-year stint as the Commanders' defensive coordinator. The move also reunites him with familiar faces in McCarthy and Graham, potentially giving him a chance to revitalize a Steelers defense that struggled at times last season.

The details

Whitt was brought to Washington by head coach Dan Quinn in 2024 to serve as the team's defensive coordinator. However, the Commanders' defense struggled during Whitt's two seasons, leading Quinn to take over playcalling duties late in the 2025 season. Whitt remained on staff until the end of the year before parting ways with the organization.

  • Whitt was hired as the Commanders' defensive coordinator in 2024.
  • Quinn took over playcalling duties for the Commanders' defense in early November 2025.
  • Whitt's tenure as Commanders' DC ended after the 2025 season.

The players

Joe Whitt Jr.

Former defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, now hired as the assistant head coach and secondary coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Dan Quinn

Head coach of the Washington Commanders, who brought Whitt to the team in 2024.

Mike McCarthy

New head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously worked with Whitt on the Green Bay Packers' coaching staff in 2018.

Patrick Graham

New defensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who also worked with Whitt on the Packers' coaching staff in 2018.

Adam Peters

General manager of the Washington Commanders, who was working to rebuild the franchise after years of mismanagement.

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What they’re saying

“Joe Whitt Jr. is a respected defensive backs coach and coordinator who will be a great addition to our staff. His experience and familiarity with Mike and Patrick will be invaluable as we work to improve our defense.”

— Art Rooney II, Pittsburgh Steelers Owner (Steelers.com)

What’s next

The Steelers will look to Whitt to help shore up their secondary and improve the overall defensive performance in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Whitt's hiring by the Steelers represents an opportunity for him to bounce back after a difficult tenure as the Commanders' defensive coordinator. His previous working relationships with McCarthy and Graham could provide him with the stability and support he needs to revitalize his coaching career.