Just weeks after parting ways with the Pittsburgh Steelers, former secondary coach Grady Brown has secured a new opportunity in the NFL. Brown is set to join the New Orleans Saints under newly appointed offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, according to reports from Matt Zenitz of 247Sports.
Brown, who spent four seasons with the Steelers, played a key role in developing the team’s young defensive backs, including Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice Jr., and Beanie Bishop Jr. However, despite his contributions, Pittsburgh opted for a change, bringing back Gerald Alexander as the secondary coach.
One of the primary factors in Brown’s departure was reportedly the communication struggles that plagued the Steelers’ secondary down the stretch of the season. Despite having a talented unit, defensive breakdowns in key moments raised concerns, leading the team to move in a different direction.
Still, Brown remains highly regarded across the league. He was even considered for the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive coordinator job earlier this offseason, a testament to his reputation as a promising defensive mind. Though he didn’t land that role, his quick hiring by the Saints suggests he is still a valued asset in NFL coaching circles.
In New Orleans, Brown will be tasked with improving a secondary that has seen its share of ups and downs. The Saints boast experienced defensive backs such as Marshon Lattimore and Tyrann Mathieu, but injuries and inconsistent performances have left room for improvement. Brown’s experience with developing young talent could be a significant boost for the unit.
With head coach Dennis Allen leading a defensive-minded team, Brown will have a chance to contribute to a Saints squad that is looking to reassert itself as a dominant force in the NFC South. If he succeeds, he could position himself for even bigger coaching opportunities down the line.
For Steelers fans, Brown’s departure marks the end of an era of development within their secondary. But for the Saints, it signals a fresh addition to their coaching staff, one that could make a real impact as the team seeks to return to playoff contention.
As the NFL coaching carousel continues, all eyes will be on Brown to see if he can prove Pittsburgh wrong and elevate New Orleans’ defensive backfield to new heights.