2026 NFL Mock Draft Steelers Review, the Steelers’ draft strategy under general manager Omar Khan is an interesting and thought-provoking topic that sparks curiosity. The narrative unfolds in a compelling and distinctive manner, drawing readers into a story that promises to be both engaging and uniquely memorable.
The Steelers have a rich history of drafting talented players, but their approach to selecting players for specific positions has been a subject of debate. In recent years, the team has focused on addressing specific needs, such as quarterback and wide receiver, but they also need to strengthen their defensive line.
Projecting the Steelers’ 2026 NFL Draft Board

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been active in addressing their needs and preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft. In this piece, we’ll take a closer look at how the Steelers might approach their draft board, exploring their top prospects at each position and providing context for their potential picks.
Top Positional Needs
The Steelers have a few clear areas of need on their roster, which will inform their draft strategy. Quarterback, while not a pressing concern, is an area where they could look to upgrade in the near future. Cornerback and defensive tackle are pressing concerns, with the Steelers likely to address one or both of these positions in the top rounds. Wide receiver and tight end are also areas where the Steelers could look to add depth.
Quarterback
While the Steelers have a solid starter in Kenny Pickett, they may look to add a second quarterback in the draft to provide depth. Potential targets include:
- Nathan Rourke (University of Toledo)
- Jalen Milroe (University of Alabama)
- CJ Stroud (Ohio State University)
- Peyton Thorne (Michigan State University)
- Jayden Daniels (University of LSU)
- Michael Penix (University of Washington)
Each of these quarterbacks brings something different to the table, and the Steelers will need to weigh their options carefully.
Cornerback
The Steelers had several injuries at cornerback last season, and adding depth to this position will be essential. Some potential targets include:
- Deonte Banks (University of Maryland)
- Ahmed Gardner (University of Cincinnati)
- Antonio Johnson (Texas A&M)
- Nick Cross (University of Maryland)
- Clark Phillips III (University of Utah)
Each of these cornerbacks brings different skills to the table, and the Steelers will need to evaluate their options carefully.
Defensive Tackle
The Steelers’ defensive tackle position has been hit hard by injuries in recent years, and adding depth here will be essential. Some potential targets include:
- Tracy Straw (Mississippi State)
- Isaiah Foskey (Notre Dame)
- Occhuisi (Michigan State University)
- Ryan Johnson (Penn State University)
- Devonte Wyatt (University of Georgia)
Each of these defensive tackles brings something different to the table, and the Steelers will need to weigh their options carefully.
Wide Receiver
The Steelers had several injuries at wide receiver last season, and adding depth to this position will be essential. Some potential targets include:
- Rakim Jarrett (University of Maryland)
- Josh Downs (University of North Carolina)
- Jonathan Mingo (University of Miss)
- Seth Williams (Penn State University)
- Landon Duke (Auburn)
Each of these wide receivers brings different skills to the table, and the Steelers will need to evaluate their options carefully.
Tight End
The Steelers’ tight end position has been a bit of a mystery in recent years, and adding depth here will be essential. Some potential targets include:
- Daevon Robinson (Cincinnati)
- Samuel Riley (Virginia Tech)
- Jake Smith (University of Texas)
- Dylan Soehnge (Oregon State University)
- Joey Porter Jr.
Each of these tight ends brings something different to the table, and the Steelers will need to weigh their options carefully.
Projecting the Steelers’ Draft Board
The Steelers’ draft board will likely be influenced by a combination of need, talent, and fit. The Steelers may prioritize adding depth to their defensive tackle and cornerback positions, while also looking to add a second quarterback. The team may also consider adding depth at wide receiver and tight end.
| Round | Position | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CB | Deonte Banks | University of Maryland |
| 2 | DT | Tracy Straw | Mississippi State |
| 3 | WR | Rakim Jarrett | University of Maryland |
| 4 | QB | Jalen Milroe | University of Alabama |
| 5 | CB | Ahmed Gardner | University of Cincinnati |
| 6 | DT | Occhuisi | Michigan State University |
| 7 | TE | Samuel Riley | Virginia Tech |
Potential Draft Picks, 2026 nfl mock draft steelers
Here are 20 potential draft picks for the Steelers in the 2026 NFL Draft:
- Nathan Rourke (University of Toledo)
- Jalen Milroe (University of Alabama)
- CJ Stroud (Ohio State University)
- Peyton Thorne (Michigan State University)
- Jayden Daniels (University of LSU)
- Michael Penix (University of Washington)
- Deonte Banks (University of Maryland)
- Ahmed Gardner (University of Cincinnati)
- Tracy Straw (Mississippi State)
- Antonio Johnson (Texas A&M)
- Nick Cross (University of Maryland)
- Clark Phillips III (University of Utah)
- Rakim Jarrett (University of Maryland)
- Josh Downs (University of North Carolina)
- Jonathan Mingo (University of Miss)
- Seth Williams (Penn State University)
- Landon Duke (Auburn)
- Daevon Robinson (Cincinnati)
- Samuel Riley (Virginia Tech)
Closure

The Steelers’ 2026 NFL Mock Draft is expected to be a highly competitive and eventful event, with many talented players vying for a spot on the team’s roster. The mock draft will provide an exciting opportunity to speculate about the Steelers’ future and their chances of repeating as AFC Champions.
With the draft approaching, fans are eager to know who the Steelers will choose and how it will affect their chances of winning the Super Bowl. The Steelers’ draft strategy will be crucial in determining their future success.
FAQ Insights: 2026 Nfl Mock Draft Steelers
What are the Steelers’ strengths heading into the 2026 NFL Mock Draft?
The Steelers have a strong offense led by quarterback Kenny Pickett, and their wide receiver corps is one of the best in the league. Their pass rush is also a key strength, with several talented players who can make an impact.
How has the Steelers’ recent free agency activity impacted their draft decisions?
The Steelers have been active in free agency, signing several key players to strengthen their roster. However, they still have needs to address, particularly on the defensive line, which could impact their draft decisions.
What are the key factors to consider when evaluating the top quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft?
When evaluating top quarterback prospects, it’s essential to consider their arm strength, accuracy, decision-making, and leadership skills. The ideal quarterback should have a strong passing game and the ability to read defenses and make adjustments on the fly.
How will the Steelers’ salary cap situation affect their draft decisions?
The Steelers have a relatively comfortable salary cap situation, which will give them flexibility to sign young players and make key roster moves. However, they still need to manage their cap space effectively to remain competitive.