2026 NFL Team Draft Page

2025 Draft Grade: B+

Much to the ire of Mel Kiper's cardiologist, the Steelers passed on Shadeur Sanders and the rest of the high profile Quarterback lottery tickets to focus on positional groups where they could add solid players to address thin spots in the roster. This class was deep in the defensive line. The Steelers, needing to replace Ogunjobi this year and Heyward in the near future, picked up Derrick Harmon in the first round. He fits the Steelers mold of long, powerful linemen who can play as a 5-technique or inside in the nickel sub package. He's stout against the run and has demonstrated a skill to get loose in the backfield. In RD 3 Caleb Johnson will be a replacement for Najee Harris while being a better fit for Arthur Smith's offense as a one-cut back ideal for outside zone.

The Day 3 picks followed some well worn Steeler draft tendencies. Overlooking other needs to add linebackers might be the most fundamental piece of this team's DNA. When the highly regarded Jack Sawyer slipped to RD4, they couldn't help themselves. He enters a crowded OLB room, but should contribute on special teams. Yahya Black follows the tendency to pick physical outliers. With height, weight, wingspan, and arm length at 92% or greater, Black has a high ceiling but he's got a lot of competition to make the 53. The other notable Day 3 pick is of course QB Will Howard. Howard has shown the ability to handle the media with ease and has won the hearts of many fans. He will likely battle for the QB3 spot with the top of the roster still up in the air.

Looking ahead - 2026 Draft

There are likely 2-3 significant players from the 2025 Steelers team that are not under contract. Considering the roster as currently engaged in OTAs: The QB position is the paramount need. The team has stockpiled 2026 picks including comp picks to move up and take a QB next year. Additionally, the team will be looking for a WR2 having dealt away the most talented receiver to wear the black and gold since Antonio Brown. Fans don't know how much of a culture problem Pickens was or if his maturity issues could be addressed by ... maturing, maybe a little coaching?. Regardless this team should be in the market for a WR in the first 2 days of the draft. Corner could be another area for early focus with a need to find a long term starter opposite Porter.