The Pittsburgh Steelers have been strategic in accumulating draft capital for 2026. General Manager Omar Khan acknowledged that their offseason free agent signings aimed to leverage the compensatory pick formula, in addition to acquiring a third-round pick through the George Pickens trade. Reports indicate that the Steelers are fully committed to drafting a quarterback in the first round of the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place in Pittsburgh for the first time in history.
This upcoming draft is anticipated to feature a strong class of quarterbacks, although circumstances can shift dramatically over the course of a year. The 2022 and 2025 drafts serve as reminders that identifying first-round caliber quarterbacks can often be a challenge.
Moreover, the Steelers are not the only team aiming for a top quarterback pick. In this overview, I will examine their main competitors and the draft capital they are projected to hold.
With four compensatory picks and the assets gained from the George Pickens trade, the Steelers are on track to have 12 total selections, including seven in the top 150, compared to just three in 2025.
Here’s a look at some of the key contenders for acquiring a quarterback in the next draft, along with their current draft capital.
Cleveland Browns
Projected Picks: 9
First-Round Picks: 2
The Browns drafted Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders as potential quarterbacks, but neither seems poised to be a franchise player. Given the Browns’ need for a quarterback, their considerable draft capital suggests they might aggressively pursue a standout in 2026. They are currently positioned to have two first-round picks, which could both land in the top 10 depending on the performance of other teams, complicating competition for the Steelers.
Los Angeles Rams
Projected Picks: 10
First-Round Picks: 2
As they look to maximize the twilight of Matthew Stafford’s career, the Rams restructured his contract once again. With Stafford’s age and history of injuries, it’s clear the Rams need to start planning for the future of the position. They currently possess two first-round picks, which may hinder the Steelers’ chances in a trade scenario.
New Orleans Saints
Projected Picks: 7
First-Round Picks: 1
The Saints, in the midst of a full rebuild, selected Tyler Shough in the second round but wouldn’t hesitate to draft a franchise quarterback if the chance arises. With seven picks projected, they could land a top-five pick should their season falter.
New York Jets
Projected Picks: 9
First-Round Picks: 1
Despite Justin Fields receiving a substantial two-year contract, the new Jets management may prioritize change if he underperforms in 2025. They hold nine picks in total but have limited selections in the top 150; however, a poor season from Fields could lead to a high first-round pick.
Indianapolis Colts
Projected Picks: 9
First-Round Picks: 1
With Anthony Richardson’s trajectory uncertain and Daniel Jones struggling, the Colts have a crucial decision ahead. They possess nine picks, with about five projected in the top 150, making them a team to watch.
Las Vegas Raiders
Projected Picks: 9
First-Round Picks: 1
The Raiders, who recently extended Geno Smith’s contract, are also in a transitional phase. With Tom Brady’s involvement as a part-owner, they are likely to explore quarterback options to secure a franchise player. Their projected draft capital matches the Steelers’, elevating the competition further.
