Steelers Must Keep Defensive Culture w/Mike McCarthy, Patrick Graham | Why Trade-Ups Are a Certainty

In this episode of the Locked On Steelers podcast, host Chris Carter emphasizes the critical importance of preserving the Steelers' long-standing defensive culture under new head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. He argues that while the coaching staff may bring new schemes, the core identity of the Steelers defense—built on physicality, discipline, and a legacy of excellence from icons like Joey Porter Sr., Troy Polamalu, and James Harrison—must remain intact. Carter highlights how this culture has endured through generations, even during rebuilding phases, and stresses that veteran players like T.J. Watt and Cam Hayward should serve as cultural anchors. The episode also addresses key draft questions, including whether the Steelers should select Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the first round. Carter concludes that while Simpson has potential, he lacks the elite traits needed for a franchise quarterback and is better suited for a later pick. Finally, Carter makes a strong case for the Steelers trading up in the draft using their 12 picks—especially their later-round selections—to secure high-impact players early, rather than filling out the roster with low-ceiling late-round picks or undrafted free agents. He believes this strategy maximizes their chances of building a competitive roster quickly. Key takeaways include: (1) The Steelers must preserve their defensive culture as a foundational identity; (2) Ty Simpson is not a first-round quarterback prospect and should be considered in the second or third round; (3) Trading up with late picks is a smarter strategy than using all 12 draft selections; (4) The Steelers should prioritize high-impact players over depth in later rounds; (5) The team is in a position to be aggressive in the draft to accelerate their rebuild; (6) Cultural continuity, led by veteran players, is essential for long-term success; (7) The 2026 draft is a pivotal opportunity to build a competitive roster; (8) The Steelers should use their draft capital strategically to gain higher picks and secure franchise pieces.