2026 Senior Bowl Day 1 Notebook

Which players stood out and should gain the Steelers' interest?

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:47pm

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The 2026 Senior Bowl kicked off with the first day of practice in Mobile, Alabama. Steelers general manager Omar Khan was absent to introduce new head coach Mike McCarthy, but the team was still represented by former defensive line coach Karl Dunbar. The quarterback class did not impress, with no passers separating themselves. However, several defensive players, including Pitt linebacker Keeanu Louis and Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, had strong showings in coverage drills. On offense, USC receiver Ja'Kobi Lane and Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. stood out.

Why it matters

The Senior Bowl is a crucial scouting event for the Steelers, who have a history of drafting players who participate. With needs at linebacker, safety, and potentially quarterback, the performances of certain prospects could influence Pittsburgh's draft strategy.

The details

Pitt linebacker Keeanu Louis, who measured in at 5'11" and 224 pounds, impressed with his coverage skills and ability to make plays in the backfield. He jumped a route intended for Penn State running back Nick Singleton and delivered a big hit on Nittany Lion back Kaytron Allen. Oregon's Bryce Boettcher and Arizona State's Keyshaun Elliott also had solid days in coverage drills. On offense, USC's Ja'Kobi Lane looked more fluid as a route runner, while Georgia State's Ted Hurst made the catch of the day, mossing a defender in the end zone. Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. also caught the eye with his size, burst, and pass-catching ability.

  • The 2026 Senior Bowl kicked off on January 28, 2026 in Mobile, Alabama.

The players

Keeanu Louis

A linebacker from the University of Pittsburgh who stood out with his coverage skills and ability to make plays in the backfield.

Bryce Boettcher

A linebacker from the University of Oregon who had a solid day in coverage drills.

Keyshaun Elliott

A linebacker from Arizona State University who performed well in coverage drills.

Ja'Kobi Lane

A wide receiver from the University of Southern California who looked more fluid as a route runner.

Mike Washington Jr.

A running back from the University of Arkansas who impressed with his size, burst, and pass-catching ability.

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The takeaway

The first day of the 2026 Senior Bowl provided a glimpse into some of the top prospects that could be of interest to the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the quarterback class did not stand out, several defensive players and offensive skill position players made strong impressions that could lead to further evaluation by the Steelers' scouting staff.