With Patrick Graham being announced as the new defensive coordinator of the Pittsburgh Steelers, more changes could be on the way. The defense has been highly compensated in the Steel City for years under Mike Tomlin, but that group might need further investment.
Don't be surprised if Graham changes some players around on defense, as he becomes the top dog for that unit.
Mike McCarthy makes a quality hire with Graham, who has been successful with a lot less talent during his stints as defensive coordinator. His new job in Pittsburgh should give him a terrific opportunity to work with some headlining names and reshape the Steelers' defense. There are several pending free agents of the Raiders who could follow Graham at his new location.
Pittsburgh Steelers DC Patrick Graham could poach some free agents from Las Vegas
Eric Stokes, CB
One of the biggest pending free agents for the Raiders this offseason is Eric Stokes. He just had a breakout campaign, and a lot of credit goes to Graham for his success. Stokes is still a young player and someone who fits the mold of a free agent the Steelers traditionally target. Pittsburgh needs another starting-caliber cornerback to deploy on defense, and Stokes could be a terrific fit.
Elandon Roberts, LB
Depending on how the linebacker group changes this offseason, they could need to add multiple pieces.
Elandon Roberts spent the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Steelers before departing in free agency last year. He showed his strong ability to attack the football. Roberts isn't going to wow anyone, but he is a tough and physical linebacker who can step in and start games when injuries occur.
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Lonnie Johnson Jr., S
Not every free agent addition needs to be a home run addition, and Lonnie Johnson Jr. would fit that depth signing mold. He hasn't produced big numbers since 2021 and has since been a depth player for NFL rosters. Graham might like the familiarity Johnson has with his defense, and could want to sign him. With a shuffling secondary this offseason, having experienced depth would be beneficial.
Jamal Adams, LB
One of the biggest surprises this past campaign for the Steelers' new defensive coordinator was the reemergence of Jamal Adams.
He was once an elite safety, but his stardom quickly declined. Graham determined it was in Adams’ best interest to move to middle linebacker, a transition that proved successful. While aging on defense is never ideal, Adams remains a physical player and fits the type of profile Pittsburgh looks for.