Steelers Blend Future Quarterback Gamble with Identity Picks
PITTSBURGH The Pittsburgh Steelers didn’t just draft for need—they drafted for direction.
This class tells a story.
It’s part protection, part playmaking, and one major swing at the future of the franchise under center. The Steelers walked out of Pittsburgh with one of the more intriguing—and polarizing—draft classes in the league.
Full 2026 Draft Class Breakdown and Grades
Round 1 (No. 21): Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State — Grade: B+
A tone-setting pick. Iheanachor brings size and athletic upside to an offensive line that has been under construction for years. This is a long-term investment in stability and protection—and a necessary one.
Round 2 (No. 47): Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama — Grade: A-
This is where the draft gets interesting. Bernard adds explosive speed and SEC-level production to a Steelers offense that desperately needed juice. He has immediate impact potential and fits today’s NFL perfectly.
Round 3 (No. 76): Drew Allar, QB, Penn State — Grade: A (High Upside Pick)
Though he grew up a Browns fan and likely did not want to go to a rival team. He is officially a Steeler and that is just that. This is the defining pick of the class.
Allar staying in Pennsylvania keeps a local storyline alive, but more importantly, it gives Pittsburgh a potential franchise quarterback to develop. He’s raw—but the tools are undeniable. This is a calculated gamble with massive upside.
Round 3 (No. 85): Daylen Everette, CB, Georgia — Grade: B+
Physical, SEC-tested, and scheme-ready. Everette fits the Steelers’ defensive identity perfectly and adds much-needed depth to the secondary.
Round 3 (No. 99): Gennings Dunker, OL, Iowa — Grade: B
A classic Steelers trenches pick. Dunker adds interior flexibility and physicality, reinforcing the offensive line rebuild. This is a depth pick that could quietly become important.
Oh, and did we include the best mullet in the league?! Yeah- this guy is full on Yinz and guaranteed to be a fan favorite.
Round 4 (No. 121): Kaden Wetjen, WR, Iowa — Grade: B-
A developmental receiver with size and blocking ability. Not flashy, but fits Pittsburgh’s physical offensive style.
Round 5 (No. 169): Riley Nowakowski, TE, Wisconsin — Grade: B-
A strong, physical tight end who fits the Steelers’ identity. Adds depth and versatility in blocking schemes.
Round 6 (No. 210): Gabriel Rubio, DT, Notre Dame — Grade: B-
Strong. Gritty. Fast. A Steelers make up. He plays with high intensity and strength. Injuries hurt his draft stock and could be something to keep an eye on but with proper development he is a great addition to the defensive dynasty Pittsburgh has built.
Round 7 (No. 224): Robert Spears-Jennings, S, Oklahoma – Grade: A-
Head turning after a blazing 4.32 seconds 40- yard dash at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. With his speed the Steelers special team just got faster, better, and more exciting! With serious improvements to his critical skills like coverage he could develop and become a big- asset.
Round 7 (No. 230): Eli Heidenreich, RB/WR, Navy — Grade: B+ (Value Pick)
One of the more intriguing late-round picks. A versatile weapon who can line up across the field and brings production and athleticism. Could become a fan favorite quickly. A Pittsburgh native and lifelong Steelers fan- a true Hometown Hero that happens to also be very talented and hungry for a chance.
What This Draft Means for the Steelers
This class is about balance:
Reinforcing the offensive line
Adding speed at receiver
Investing in the future at quarterback
The Allar selection changes everything. It signals that Pittsburgh is thinking long-term, even while staying competitive now.
Are the Steelers Contenders Yet?
Not yet—but they’re closer.
The AFC North remains one of the toughest divisions in football, and Pittsburgh still sits just outside the elite tier.
However, this draft:
Raises their offensive ceiling
Adds depth across key positions
Introduces a potential franchise QB
Will Howard does not seem to be shaping up as well as the Steelers would have hoped seemingly why they went with Allar. If he develops faster than expected, the timeline accelerates immediately, because as we all know- Aaron Rogers is not the long term option.
The Reality: One of the Most Important Drafts in Years
This isn’t just another Steelers draft class.
It’s a pivot point.
If it hits, Pittsburgh is back in the contender conversation sooner than expected. If it misses, they’re still searching for answers at the most important position in sports.
