Steelers’ 2026 NFL Draft Grades For Every Pick

The 2026 free agency period had been a whirlwind of calculated risks and veteran departures for the Steelers. It left the offensive line in desperate need of a foundational anchor. The receiving corps also lacked a true vertical threat to complement DK Metcalf. Beyond the trenches, the secondary remained an unfinished puzzle. Of course, the quarterback room certainly lacked a developmental option. Pittsburgh needed durability, versatility, and players who could contribute immediately.

Dramatic weekend

The 2026 NFL Draft weekend had a lot of drama for Steelers fans. The defining moment came early, when Pittsburgh appeared poised to select USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 21, only for the Philadelphia Eagles to leapfrog them at No. 20 and snatch the dynamic playmaker away. It was a gut punch from their cross-state rivals, the kind that could derail a draft.

Instead, the Steelers responded by recalibrating and doubling down on their philosophy. They targeted battle-tested prospects from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Penn State. This wasn’t about chasing headlines after a miss. They just went for the best available talen who could understand expectations, thrive under pressure, and withstand the grind of a 17-game season.

Round 1, pick 21, OL Max Iheanachor, Arizona State

Grade: B+

Max Iheanachor was not the initial plan. However, he might end up being the better outcome. The Arizona State tackle brings size, strength, and a punishing run-blocking style that fits perfectly with Pittsburgh’s identity. He won’t just occupy space. He moves defenders against their will. Iheanachor steps into a unit that desperately needed stability. His presence immediately raises the floor of the offense.

Round 2, pick 47, WR Germie Bernard, Alabama

Grade: A+

Trading up to secure Germie Bernard was an important move for the Steelers’ draft. After missing out on Lemon, Pittsburgh refused to sit back and watch another playmaker slip away. Bernard is a polished, high-IQ receiver with the ability to operate across the formation.

This is an A+ pick because it checks every box. Bernard complements Metcalf perfectly. He provides the route-running precision and yards-after-catch ability the offense lacked. It was aggressive, necessary, and perfectly executed.

Round 3, pick 76, QB Drew Allar, Penn State

Grade: B

Bringing Drew Allar back to Pennsylvania adds an intriguing layer to Pittsburgh’s long-term plans. Allar possesses the arm talent and size that teams covet. However, he doesn’t need to be rushed into action. There is balance between risk and upside here. In the right environment, Allar could develop into a legitimate starter. For now, he represents a smart investment in the future.

Round 3, pick 85, CB Daylen Everette, Georgia

Grade: A

Daylen Everette addresses one of the Steelers’ most pressing needs with authority. A physical, press-heavy corner from Georgia, he brings the exact temperament required to survive in the AFC North. Everette has been tested against elite competition and has the tools to contribute immediately.

Round 3, pick 96, OL Gennings Dunker, Iowa

Grade: B-

Gennings Dunker is the quintessential Steelers lineman. He is tough, technically sound, and dependable. He may not have elite upside, but he brings a level of consistency that offensive lines are built on. The grade reflects his ceiling, but his floor is exactly what Pittsburgh needed.

Round 4, pick 121, RB Kaden Wetjen, Iowa

Grade: C

Kaden Wetjen is a projection pick with a specific role. His return ability could provide a spark on special teams. That said, his overall impact will depend on how quickly he adapts to the professional level. There is much uncertainty, though the upside is there.

Round 5, pick 169, TE Riley Nowakowski, Wisconsin

Grade: B

Riley Nowakowski might be the most “Steelers” pick of the entire draft. A hybrid tight end/fullback, he brings versatility, toughness, and a willingness to do the dirty work. He carries role-player value. Nowakowski won’t dominate headlines, but he will earn snaps.

Late-round depth defines the class

The Steelers closed out their draft by targeting high-character, physically sound players who fit their culture. Defensive lineman Gabriel Rubio adds depth to the front, safety Robert Spears-Jennings brings versatility to the secondary, and Eli Heidenreich offers a unique backfield presence with his hybrid skill set.

Each of these selections earns grades in the B range. They align with what Pittsburgh values: toughness, discipline, and adaptability. These are the players who fill out a roster and make a difference when injuries inevitably hit.

Built for Pittsburgh football

The Steelers’ 2026 NFL Draft grades for every pick ultimately tell a story of resilience and clarity. They didn’t panic after missing their initial target. They adjusted, attacked, and came away with a class that strengthens both the present and the future.

By reinforcing the offensive line, adding a dynamic receiver, and investing in a developmental quarterback, Pittsburgh has positioned itself to compete now while preparing for what comes next.