Pittsburgh Steelers’ Roster Needs and Draft Capital
The Pittsburgh Steelers have significant roster gaps to fill, but they are fortunate to possess a considerable amount of draft capital. With expected compensatory picks, the team is projected to have 12 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, presenting an opportunity to inject youth and talent into various roster areas.
Mock Draft Highlights
PFF analysts Trevor Sikkema and Connor Rogers attempted to rapidly enhance the franchise in their mock draft. Uncommonly for the Steelers, they have the team selecting Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion at No. 21 overall. Additionally, they propose signing Green Bay Packers wideout Romeo Doubs in free agency, significantly improving the team’s receiving depth.
Revamping the Receiving Corps
“The wide receiver lineup would be DK Metcalf, Romeo Doubs, and KC Concepcion,” said Sikkema. “With Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington available in the passing game, you’d feel more confident in the offense.” This would mark a substantial shift towards relying on receivers over tight ends, especially under a new coaching staff likely to adopt a different offensive philosophy.
Defensive Focus
The next two picks turn the spotlight on defense, with the Steelers targeting Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren in the second round and Miami (FL) cornerback Keionte Scott as their first third-round selection. Rogers praised McNeil-Warren’s versatility, noting his physicality and suitability for a Chris Shula-type defense.
Key Defensive Additions
As a senior, McNeil-Warren recorded impressive stats including 77 tackles and multiple forced turnovers, making him a potential starter, especially if the new coaching staff decides to move on from FS Jalen Ramsey. Scott, on the other hand, had a standout season at Miami, showcasing his skills with a career-high in tackles and several defensive touchdowns.
Strengthening the Trenches
In the final pair of third-round picks, Sikkema and Rogers aimed to bolster the offensive and defensive lines by selecting Indiana OT Carter Smith and Texas Tech DL Skyler Gill-Howard. Smith, with his 40 career starts, offers solid experience, while Gill-Howard, despite a foot injury this past season, had impressive pre-injury numbers and is viewed as a strong pass rusher.
Draft Summary
In summary, the mock draft selections included: Round 1 – KC Concepcion/WR Texas A&M, Round 2 – Emmanuel McNeil-Warren/S Toledo, Round 3 – Keionte Scott/CB Miami (FL), Round 3 – Carter Smith/OT Indiana, Round 3 – Skyler Gill-Howard/DL Texas Tech. While quarterback needs were overlooked due to a weak class, this draft strategy effectively addresses multiple position needs, aiming to reshape the roster for 2026 and beyond.
