Steelers Could Unlock New Level for Second-Year Fan Favorite

That means the Pittsburgh Steelers will likely deploy a variety of sub-packages and defensive line looks under Patrick Graham, who should help accelerate the development and production of this second-year defensive lineman.

Nov 23, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Yahya Black (94) reacts after a fumble recovery against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

PITTSBURGH -- As the Pittsburgh Steelers move closer to their new season, there is a growing sense that the new coaching staff will find a way to improve the defense. That's the goal, at least, for new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and head coach Mike McCarthy.

At the recent NFL Owners' Meetings, the Steelers' head coach made it clear that the team is emphasizing versatility as it reconstructs its defensive makeup. McCarthy is a staunch defender of the 3-4 defensive schematics that his mentor, Dom Capers, and former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher instituted in Pittsburgh during the 1990s.

McCarthy is also aware of the way the league, and subsequently defenses, have had to adjust. That means the Steelers will likely deploy a variety of subpackages and defensive line looks under Graham, who also loves to shift things around and be unpredictable. It should help accelerate the development and production of second-year defensive lineman Yahya Black.

How Graham Will Help Black and Steelers

Yahya Black was an impressive first-year player after being selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. A huge-bodied defender, he measures in at 6'5" and nearly 340 pounds. The inventor of the "Belly Celly," Black became a fan favorite instantly in 2025, totaling 28 tackles and two forced fumbles over 17 games. He showed an ability to fill gaps and consume offensive linemen as he pursues the ball-carrier and proved he's much more than just the other defensive lineman taken in the draft behind Derrick Harmon.

The Steelers primarily lined Black up at the B gap as a rookie, according to data compiled from Pro Football Focus. The second-most common place he lined up was over the tackle. It was a snap allotment that mirrored top defensive lineman Cam Heyward, who had the same breakdown and primary alignment along the d-line.

Feb 27, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Iowa defensive lineman Yahya Black (DL04) participates in drills during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

More Versatility in 2026?

With Graham calling the defense, expect Black to expand where he lines up along the defensive line. With Black's hulking size, he is a natural fit to be a nose tackle in certain sets and line up in the zero technique.

Alternatively, his experience as a rookie led to some impressive plays. In addition to his two forced fumbles, he showed that he can be a nuisance in the passing game. There was a specific play against the Detroit Lions that led to his only pass defended in 2025. Instead of rushing from his spot on the d-line, he dropped into a zone coverage a few yards off the line of scrimmage. Completely ignored by the Lions quarterback, Black was able to nearly grab his first interception off the errant pass.

That's the type of versatility that Patrick Graham is looking for across his defense. Black has the strength and speed to be a force anywhere along the defensive front, and with the new defensive coordinator calling the plays, things are looking up for the Steelers' young defender.

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