The Pittsburgh Steelers have added Darian Thompson to their coaching staff as the team’s new Special Teams Quality Control Coach, according to the team’s official front office roster. Thompson joins the organization following the departure of Derius Swinton II, who was released earlier this offseason amid reports of unspecified workplace misconduct.
Who is Darian Thompson?
Darian Thompson joins the Steelers with a dual background as both a former NFL player and a coach. As a player, Thompson appeared in 63 games between 2016 and 2021, recording 173 tackles and two interceptions while logging nearly 800 snaps on special teams. He was originally selected by the New York Giants in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. His transition to coaching began in Dallas, where he served as an assistant linebackers and quality control coach in 2023, followed by a role as the secondary and nickel coach in 2025.
Mike McCarthy has a professional history with Thompson, dating back to their time together in Dallas from 2020 to 2021. McCarthy previously praised Thompson’s “outstanding” work ethic and “workload capacity” during their time with the Cowboys.
How will Thompson fit into the Steelers’ coaching structure?
Thompson will work alongside veteran special teams coach Danny Crossman. Crossman replaced the outgoing Danny Smith. The primary challenge facing this duo involves addressing the Steelers’ inconsistent production in the return game. While kicker Chris Boswell has been one of the league’s best throughout his career, the coverage units and punt production have historically been weak in some areas.
What are the expectations for the special teams unit?
The addition of a quality control coach is intended to provide support for the primary special teams coordinator. This hire follows Mike McCarthy’s commitment to reporters that he intended to hire a replacement for the assistant role.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the new Steelers Special Teams Quality Control Coach?
Darian Thompson has been hired to fill this role, as confirmed by the team’s official front office page. - Why was Derius Swinton II replaced?
The team parted ways with Swinton following reports of unspecified workplace misconduct. - Does Darian Thompson have previous coaching experience?
Yes, Thompson served as an assistant linebackers and quality control coach in Dallas in 2023 and as a secondary/nickel coach in 2025.
When evaluating coaching staff changes, look at the “Quality Control” roles.
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