Steelers Unveil 7-Round Mock Draft Picks

Beat writer Ray Fittipaldo's latest projections for the team's 2026 NFL Draft selections

Mar. 19, 2026 at 10:05am

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Pittsburgh Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo has released his latest seven-round mock draft for the team, providing insight into how the Steelers could address roster needs without any glaring holes to fill. The projected picks cover a range of positions, including safety, wide receiver, cornerback, offensive line, tight end, and defensive tackle.

Why it matters

The Steelers have an opportunity in the 2026 NFL Draft to strategically build depth and find long-term contributors across the roster. Fittipaldo's mock offers a glimpse into how the team could leverage its draft capital to address both immediate and future needs.

The details

In the first round, the Steelers are projected to select safety Dillon Thieneman from Oregon, which would allow them to maximize the versatility of defensive back Jalen Ramsey. Other notable picks include wide receiver Germie Bernard from Alabama in the second round, cornerback Keith Abney II from Arizona State in the third round, and offensive linemen Gennings Dunker from Iowa and Caleb Tiernan from Northwestern, also in the third round.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Dillon Thieneman

A safety prospect from the University of Oregon.

Germie Bernard

A wide receiver from the University of Alabama known for his versatility, similar to former 49ers star Deebo Samuel.

Keith Abney II

A cornerback from Arizona State University with the potential to be a long-term solution in the Steelers' secondary.

Gennings Dunker

An offensive lineman from the University of Iowa who could be a steal for the Steelers in the third round as a potential starting left guard.

Caleb Tiernan

An offensive lineman from Northwestern University who could provide valuable depth and versatility as a swing tackle.

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What they’re saying

“If this scenario happens, the Steelers should absolutely select Thieneman. It would free up Jalen Ramsey to move between safety and cornerback and give them the best safety in Pittsburgh since Troy Polamalu.”

— Curt Popejoy, Author

“We've gone on record that we love the versatility of Bernard. He is a lot like prime Deebo Samuel and we love that skill set as the Steelers No. 3 wide receiver.”

— Curt Popejoy, Author

What’s next

The Steelers will have the opportunity to put Fittipaldo's projections to the test when the 2026 NFL Draft takes place in April.

The takeaway

The Steelers' 2026 draft class, as outlined in Fittipaldo's mock, showcases the team's ability to strategically address roster needs and find long-term contributors without any glaring holes to fill. The projected picks demonstrate a balanced approach to strengthening the defense, offense, and special teams.