Steelers Patch Up Glaring Hole in Latest 2026 NFL Draft Mock-Up

Pittsburgh selects Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane with the No. 21 overall pick to address a need on the offensive line.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In Pro Football & Sports Network's latest three-round 2026 NFL Draft mock-up, the Pittsburgh Steelers addressed a hole at guard by selecting Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane with the No. 21 overall pick. Ioane is widely considered the top interior lineman in the class and a strong candidate to be the first pure guard selected. The Steelers also added several other players in the mock draft, including a linebacker, quarterback, wide receiver, and center.

Why it matters

The Steelers had a hole at guard after veteran Isaac Seumalo left in free agency, and they were able to fill that need early in the draft by selecting Ioane, who is known for his strength, leverage, and consistency on the offensive line. Shoring up the interior of the offensive line is crucial for the Steelers as they look to build a strong offense heading into the 2026 season.

The details

According to the scouting report, Ioane is a "prototypical guard for physical run schemes" who plays with "excellent contact balance and technique on both base blocks and double teams." The Steelers also added several other players in the mock draft, including Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter in the second round, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch, and Auburn center Connor Lew in the third round.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in the spring of 2026.

The players

Olaivavega Ioane

A 6-foot-4, 320-pound guard from Penn State who is widely considered the top interior lineman in the 2026 NFL Draft class.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is looking to build a strong offensive line for the 2026 season.

Isaac Seumalo

A veteran guard who left the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency, creating a hole on the offensive line that the team needed to address.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Depth along the interior offensive line could push the Pittsburgh Steelers toward addressing the guard position early in the draft. Olaivavega Ioane might be too good to pass up if he's still available at No. 21. Adding Ioane would give Pittsburgh a powerful presence inside while reinforcing an offensive line that needs more stability heading into the 2026 season.”

— Pro Football & Sports Network, Draft analysts

“Prototypical guard for physical run schemes with thick limbs, a broad frame and plus core strength. Ioane plays with excellent contact balance and technique on both base blocks and double teams. He uses his hips and hands for leverage and displacement when drive blocking.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL draft analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will have to wait until the 2026 NFL Draft to see if their mock draft selections come to fruition. In the meantime, they will continue to evaluate prospects and prepare for the upcoming draft.

The takeaway

The Steelers' selection of Olaivavega Ioane in this mock draft highlights their commitment to addressing a clear need on the offensive line. By adding a powerful and technically sound guard like Ioane, the Steelers can strengthen their interior line and provide better protection and run-blocking for their offense in the 2026 season.