But it is the secondary where Lewis established his reputation, joining Pittsburgh as defensive backs coach in 1995. From 1995-99, the Steelers intercepted 95 passes, a total that ranked seventh in the NFL over that span, and finished in the top 10 in pass defense three times, including fourth in 1999. He held that position for five years until being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2000. In each of Lewis' four seasons as Pittsburgh's defensive coordinator, the defense ranked in the top 10 in the League.
The Steelers finished seventh in the NFL in Lewis' first season as defensive coordinator and climbed to first a year later in both total defense and rushing defense while standing fourth in passing defense. Pittsburgh ranked seventh in 2002 and led the League in rushing defense. In 2003, the Steelers rated ninth and allowed less than 300 yards per game for the second time in three years.