Steelers 2026 scouting report: WR Denzel Boston

Washington Huskies wide receiver could be an ideal target for Pittsburgh in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 11:03am

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As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers have identified wide receiver as a major area of need. One player they have been linked to throughout the pre-draft process is Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston, who could be an ideal target for the Steelers with the 21st overall pick in the first round.

Why it matters

The Steelers are looking to bolster their receiving corps in the 2026 draft, and Boston's size, ball tracking ability, and contested catch skills make him an intriguing prospect. However, his lack of top-end speed and struggles against better competition raise some concerns that the Steelers will need to evaluate.

The details

Boston, who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and 212 pounds, is praised for his incredible size, excellent ball tracking, strong run-after-catch ability, and willingness as a blocker. He is also considered an elite contested catch receiver. However, he needs to improve his release against press coverage, and his top-end speed is a concern. In his college career, Boston had 132 receptions for 1,781 yards and 20 touchdowns.

  • Boston had his best statistical seasons in 2024 (63 receptions, 834 yards, 9 touchdowns) and 2025 (62 receptions, 881 yards, 11 touchdowns).
  • Boston did not participate in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine.

The players

Denzel Boston

A wide receiver from the University of Washington who is projected to be selected in the late first or early second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh Steelers

An NFL team that has identified wide receiver as a major area of need heading into the 2026 draft and has been linked to Boston as a potential first-round target.

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What’s next

The Steelers will continue to evaluate Boston and other wide receiver prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the 21st overall pick in the first round.

The takeaway

Boston's combination of size, ball skills, and contested catch ability make him an intriguing option for the Steelers, but his lack of top-end speed and struggles against better competition will need to be carefully considered as Pittsburgh looks to bolster its receiving corps in the 2026 draft.