Pittsburgh Steelers Dismiss Special Teams Coach Derius Swinton II Over Policy Violation

The Pittsburgh Steelers have ended their employment of senior assistant special teams coach Derius Swinton II due to a team policy violation, marking another coaching staff change under new head coach Mike McCarthy. The specific nature of the policy breach has not been disclosed.

Coaching Transition and Background

Swinton, 41, joined the Steelers in February as part of McCarthy's inaugural coaching staff. His tenure lasted approximately nine months before the organization announced the separation. The termination came shortly after Swinton's previous role with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he had served as interim special teams coordinator during the 2025 season before being released following the team's head coaching change.

The coach brings extensive experience across the National Football League, having held positions with eight different franchises across his career. Prior to his Raiders assignment, Swinton worked with the Los Angeles Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, and Los Angeles Chargers, establishing himself as a respected special teams specialist throughout his professional coaching tenure.

Ongoing Uncertainty

The Steelers organization has not elaborated on which aspect of team policy prompted the decision. McCarthy's first season with Pittsburgh continues to involve roster and staff adjustments as the organization shapes its coaching structure. The circumstances surrounding Swinton's departure remain limited to the policy violation disclosure, with no additional commentary provided by team leadership.