Joe Whitt Jr., 47, brings notable defensive coordination experience, having served as the Washington Commanders’ defensive coordinator for two years. He previously spent 11 seasons on McCarthy’s Green Bay Packers staff, from 2008-2018, and now reunites with McCarthy in Pittsburgh. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported Whitt’s new roles.
Whitt will serve as assistant head coach and secondary coach, continuing his long association with McCarthy and adding depth to Pittsburgh’s defensive leadership. The move pairs well with the Steelers’ plan to bolster the defensive side of the ball with seasoned coordinators on the staff.
Shawn Howe rounds out the pair, reportedly joining as outside linebackers coach. Howe was Montana State’s defensive coordinator in 2025, after serving as co-defensive coordinator in 2024 and as the program’s defensive line coach from 2021-24. This will be Howe’s first NFL coaching job.
Howe’s hiring was reported by Skyline Sports shortly before Pelissero’s update, with MontanaSports.com’ Slim Kimmel confirming Howe’s role with the Steelers. The move continues the trend of bringing in coaches with proven coordinated experience from the college and NFL ranks.
Together with offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio, the Steelers are shaping a staff that emphasizes defensive coordination expertise as they prepare for the upcoming offseason program. The additions underscore McCarthy’s effort to leverage trusted colleagues and new voices to enhance Pittsburgh’s defensive schemes.
The Steelers’ ongoing staff-building process reflects a broader plan to stabilize and strengthen the organization’s coaching leadership ahead of the 2026 season, with further updates likely as the team finalizes its offseason slate.
