As we approach the Super Bowl today, it's striking to see two teams that were largely overlooked just a year ago now vying for the championship. This serves as a powerful testament to how swiftly dynamics can shift in the NFL. Both franchises have revitalized their fortunes thanks to robust draft classes and new coaching staffs, which is a hopeful sign for organizations like the Pittsburgh Steelers. They are heading into the offseason with an impressive total of 12 draft picks, along with a freshly appointed coaching staff led by Mike McCarthy.
Interestingly, the Steelers haven’t had as many as 12 picks in a single draft since 1992, during an era when the draft still spanned 12 rounds. Even if Pittsburgh decides to consolidate their selections to move up the draft board, this presents a unique opportunity to significantly enhance their roster and lay down the groundwork for a new championship era.
At this early stage in the draft process, mock drafts primarily serve as a forum for exploring potential possibilities rather than making definitive predictions about what the Steelers might choose to do. The draft outlined here represents my personal approach. Typically, I steer clear of trades in mock drafts; however, given the sheer number of picks at Pittsburgh's disposal, it feels almost inevitable that they will trade up at least once.
Now, without further ado, let's delve into my first version of the Steelers' mock draft for 2026.
Round 1 – Trade Up* – Caleb Downs/Safety/Ohio State
Trade Details – Steelers exchange their first-round pick plus two third-rounders in return for a first-round selection from the Dolphins.
Caleb Downs is an elite talent, and it’s a rarity for the Steelers to have a shot at someone of his caliber. The big question is whether he will still be available by the time Pittsburgh is on the clock. Historical trends suggest he might; since 2018, Minkah Fitzpatrick has been the highest safety taken, at No. 11 overall. The safety position is often overlooked in the league, which adds to the complexity of evaluating such prospects. Even if Jalen Ramsey remains with the team, he might be more effective in a hybrid role close to the line of scrimmage, especially considering his age of 31. If Downs can elevate the defense, then investing in this two-time consensus All-American would certainly be worthwhile.
Round 2 – Omar Cooper Jr./Wide Receiver/Indiana
Should the Steelers bypass a wide receiver in the first round, it becomes crucial that they secure one in the second round. Cooper stands out as an excellent candidate—he's a versatile receiver who excels at getting open, consistently catching the ball, and generating yards after the catch thanks to his impressive speed.
Round 3 – Ted Hurst/Wide Receiver/Georgia State
With the transition to Mike McCarthy’s offensive scheme, there's a pressing need for additional receivers within the Steelers' lineup. Hurst presents an exciting option if he remains on the board in the third round. He offers significant production as a larger target with refined route-running abilities and great burst. During the Senior Bowl week, he made one of the most jaw-dropping catches, showcasing his knack for getting behind defensive backs for deep-ball opportunities.
Round 4 – Nick Singleton/Running Back/Penn State
Some fortunate team will likely scoop up Singleton late in the third or even the fourth round, especially following his recent foot injury at the Senior Bowl. Why not the Steelers? He embodies the home-run threat they have sorely lacked and could evolve into the starting running back within a year or two, especially as Jaylen Warren and others move on. Singleton has the ability to run effectively, catch passes, and break away for large plays, demonstrating in Mobile that he can also excel in pass protection.
Round 4 – Keylan Rutledge/Offensive Guard/Georgia Tech
It may seem like a long shot that Rutledge is still available here, but guards often slide down the draft for reasons that remain unclear. He’s an exceptionally aggressive guard who could become a key piece of the Steelers’ young, emerging offensive line. Coaches during the Senior Bowl had to advise him to dial it back because he was pushing too many defenders to the ground. Sign me up for that kind of player!
Round 5 – Domani Jackson/Cornerback/Alabama
Jackson is a sizable corner with a background in track, making him a promising developmental prospect in the later rounds. While he needs to hone his man coverage skills, his aggressive and physical playing style combined with his physical attributes make him an intriguing addition.
Round 6 – James Thompson Jr./Defensive Lineman/Illinois
The Steelers remain committed to the 3-4 defense, necessitating continued recruitment of unique body types capable of playing as base defensive ends in an odd front. Thompson measures in at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches and weighs 310 pounds, having originally come from Wisconsin before transferring to Illinois. The Steelers have a history of favoring players from Wisconsin, which makes him a fitting candidate.
Round 6 – Barion Brown/Wide Receiver/LSU
Brown was another standout performer during Senior Bowl week, recording the fastest top speed among all attending receivers. He demonstrated his ability to create separation and make difficult catches in traffic. Although the Steelers may not strictly require three new wide receivers, Brown represents exceptional value at this point and adds depth as a return specialist, having scored six kick return touchdowns throughout his college career. With some training, he could also translate those skills to punt returns.
Round 7 – Bryce Boettcher/Linebacker/Oregon
Boettcher was selected in the MLB draft but has opted to pursue a career in football instead. From what he showcased at the Senior Bowl, it’s evident that football is where his talents shine. He exhibits physicality, athleticism, and strong communication skills, particularly in coverage, making him capable of contributing on special teams immediately, with potential for further development.
Round 7 – Jack Stonehouse/Punter/Syracuse
While I usually wouldn't advocate for drafting a punter, my frustration with the inconsistent punting in Pittsburgh has reached its limits. Stonehouse appears to possess the qualities of an NFL-caliber punter, exhibiting excellent hangtime and remarkable consistency.
