Three First-Round Options the Steelers Must Pass On

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a serious and difficult decision to make in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Thanks to some excellent work from Steelers general manager Omar Khan, the organization has improved multiple positions of need. They added a top wide receiver in Michael Pittman Jr., and positions like defensive line and cornerback have improved.

That makes positions like the offensive line and quarterback more realistic options in round one. It's anyone's guess where this team will go when the clock starts on their pick. Even with a need remaining at multiple positions, the Steelers have to avoid these three players with their first-round choice.

Ty Simpson - The Runner Up

As the NFL Draft nears, the outlook on Simpson keeps rising. Behind presumptive first-overall pick Fernando Mendoza, Simpson has become the only other quarterback expected to go in the first round.

I'm not buying it.

Yes, he made some good throws during the 2025 season, showcasing the potential to be an NFL quarterback. He also showed some terrible decision making and a tendency to get rattled.

What makes it all lean more negatively is the time frame this all occurred. Simpson started just 15 games last season, his first year as the number one in Alabama. As talented as he is, Simpson is a wild card of a pick. The Steelers need starter-caliber players with their first few picks, and the risk is far too great with the Alabama product.