What happened: The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the process of hiring a special teams coach, head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed. The opening leaves a hole on the staff that the team is now looking to fill with a replacement this offseason.

Why it matters: Special teams coordination is a quiet but pivotal piece of a coaching staff, shaping field position, return units, and the kicking game across a 17-game slate. Getting the hire right matters as McCarthy sets his staff ahead of the upcoming 2026 season.

What to watch: Watch for the Steelers to name their special teams hire in the coming weeks as McCarthy finalizes his coaching staff for 2026. The candidate pool and timeline should come into focus as the offseason progresses.