Steelers Unexpectedly Fire Assistant Coach Derius Swinton II

The Steelers parting ways with Derius Swinton II due to a violation of club policy is unusual, especially since coaching staffs are typically set by this point in the offseason. Swinton’s background includes stints with multiple NFL teams, including a period as interim special teams coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025. He also held full-time special teams coordinator positions with the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Chargers, each for one season. With Swinton gone, Danny Crossman will be the lone special teams coach, tasked with replicating the success of the Steelers’ special teams unit. The team has seen significant changes in its special teams personnel, with veterans like Miles Killebrew and James Pierre signing elsewhere and a new punter, Cameron Johnston, joining the team. Kicker Chris Boswell remains a key component, having signed a new extension.

He was fired for violating club policy, but the specifics have not been disclosed.

Swinton was hired in February 2026.

It is currently unknown if the Steelers will hire another assistant special teams coach.

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