Steelers Make Surprising Move in 2026 NFL Draft

Pittsburgh grabs QB on Day 3 despite busy offseason moves

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:36am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are armed with 12 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, giving them plenty of flexibility to address their roster needs. Despite making several notable free agent additions, including former Colts wideout Michael Pittman Jr. and running back Rico Dowdle, the Steelers may still look to use a high pick on a quarterback, with Will Howard already on the roster from the 2025 draft.

Why it matters

The Steelers have the opportunity to significantly upgrade their roster through the draft, especially at key positions like quarterback, wide receiver, offensive and defensive line, linebacker, tight end, and in the secondary. Their 12 picks give them the chance to take the best available players rather than focusing on specific needs.

The details

The Steelers hold the 21st overall pick in the first round, as well as 11 other selections spread across the draft. They may use one of their early picks on a quarterback, despite having Will Howard, a 2025 sixth-round pick, already on the roster. The team needs to round out its receiving corps, add depth on the offensive and defensive lines, and bolster the linebacker, tight end, and secondary positions.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh, the home of the Steelers.

The players

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who recently resigned from the position.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired to replace the departed Mike Tomlin.

Michael Pittman Jr.

A wide receiver who the Steelers signed in free agency, previously playing for the Indianapolis Colts.

Rico Dowdle

A running back who the Steelers signed in free agency, previously playing for the Dallas Cowboys under new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy.

Will Howard

A quarterback the Steelers drafted in the sixth round in 2025, who helped lead Ohio State to a national title.

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What’s next

The Steelers will look to make the most of their 12 draft picks to address their roster needs and continue building a contender in the AFC.

The takeaway

The Steelers have a lot of flexibility in the 2026 NFL Draft, with 12 total picks to work with. They can focus on taking the best available players to improve their roster, rather than targeting specific needs. The team's decision on whether to use an early pick on a quarterback will be a key storyline to follow.