2026 NFL Draft Mock Draft Insights
As the NFL approaches the 2026 Draft in Pittsburgh, teams are ramping up their mock draft preparations. The Pittsburgh Steelers, led by GM Omar Khan and assistant GM Andy Weidl, are busy compiling crucial player information and organizing their draft boards, with planned pre-draft visits to better understand potential picks.
The Steelers have clear positional needs heading into a bustling offseason. In ESPN’s latest three-round mock draft featuring analysts Mel Kiper Jr., Field Yates, Jordan Reid, and Matt Miller, the selected players align well with these needs, including a couple of Penn State alumni.
The Steelers’ selections from the mock draft include:
- Round 1: Olaivavega Ioane, iOL, Penn State
- Round 2: Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
- Round 3: A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
- Round 3: Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
- Round 3: Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State
The Steelers still need to focus on the left side of their offensive line and add a wide receiver. The quarterback position is also a clear target as the team anticipates a decision from Aaron Rodgers, with recent discussions appearing promising.
Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane has been frequently linked to the Steelers, especially following the departure of left guard Isaac Seumalo to the Arizona Cardinals. Kiper predicts Ioane will be the Steelers’ first-round pick, highlighting his performance by stating, “Ioane is a powerful people mover who hasn’t allowed a sack since 2023.”
In the second round, Kiper suggests selecting Tennessee’s Chris Brazzell II. Noted for his size and speed, Brazzell is seen as a player who can enhance the Steelers’ offensive capabilities. Kiper believes he could be part of a formidable receiving trio alongside DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.
The Steelers addressed additional needs with three third-round selections, picking safety A.J. Haulcy at No. 76, while Kiper also selected quarterback Drew Allar at No. 85. Despite Allar’s inconsistent performance at Penn State, Kiper points to his size and potential, comparing him to former QB Ben Roethlisberger.
Finally, Florida State’s Darrell Jackson Jr. is seen as a strong addition to bolster the defensive line. Overall, these three rounds could provide the Steelers with a solid foundation, addressing critical areas while allowing room for growth and development in the team.
