Patrick Graham will interview with the New York Giants for their vacant head coaching role, but that’s not the only interest he’s generating around the league.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who lost Keith Butler to retirement last week, have requested an interview with Graham for their defensive coordinator position.
The #Steelers put in a request to interview #Giants DC Patrick Graham for the same position in Pittsburgh, per source.
They're seeking a replacement for Keith Butler, who retired Saturday, and Graham is well-regarded.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 24, 2022
The 43-year-old Graham is well-regarded and well-respected around the league. He drew head coaching interest during the 2021 hiring cycle, but rebuffed the New York Jets and other potential teams. Instead, he signed an extension to remain with the Giants.
When the Giants fired head coach Joe Judge, Graham’s status was immediately thrust into the air. The two were close personal friends and Graham opted to stay with the Giants due, in part, to Judge’s presence.
It remains possible that Graham returns to the Giants in 2022, but there will be other options out there for him. And while he has not yet received any other requests for head coaching interviews, his time will eventually come — something he’s left the door open to.
Should the Giants approve the Steelers’ request — and there’s no reason to believe they won’t — Graham will likely interview for both positions this week.
