Steelers Eyeing Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq in First Round

Gerry Dulac's hints suggest an unexpected tight end target for Pittsburgh in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:13am

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An abstract painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in deep blue, forest green, and burnt orange, conceptually representing the strategic complexity and dynamic energy of the NFL Draft.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the strategic complexity and dynamic energy of the NFL Draft as teams weigh unexpected options to bolster their rosters.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly considering selecting Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, according to hints from prominent Steelers reporter Gerry Dulac. This would be an unexpected move, as tight end is not typically seen as a top priority in the first round, but Sadiq's potential as a dynamic pass-catching threat could fill a need for the Steelers following recent departures at the position.

Why it matters

The Steelers have a history of effectively utilizing tight ends in their offense under head coach Mike McCarthy, and Sadiq's skill set as a 'move' tight end could complement current starter Pat Freiermuth well. Drafting Sadiq in the first round would be a surprising but potentially shrewd move to add a versatile weapon to Pittsburgh's passing attack.

The details

With the recent departures of tight ends Jonnu Smith and Connor Heyward, the Steelers have an opening at the position behind Freiermuth. Dulac has strongly hinted that the team could target Sadiq, who has drawn comparisons to Rams tight end Tyler Higbee, in the first round, even though he isn't widely projected as a top-20 pick. Sadiq's ability as a pass-catcher and potential fit in McCarthy's offense make him an intriguing option for the Steelers, who may be willing to reach for him earlier than expected to address their tight end needs.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.
  • Gerry Dulac's hints about the Steelers' interest in Kenyon Sadiq surfaced in early April 2026.

The players

Kenyon Sadiq

A tight end prospect from the University of Oregon who has drawn comparisons to Rams tight end Tyler Higbee for his potential as a dynamic pass-catching threat.

Pat Freiermuth

The Steelers' current starting tight end, who could form a formidable duo with Sadiq if Pittsburgh selects him in the first round.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has a history of effectively utilizing tight ends in his offenses, as seen with Dalton Schultz and Jake Ferguson in Dallas.

Gerry Dulac

A prominent reporter who covers the Pittsburgh Steelers and has hinted at the team's potential interest in drafting Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq in the first round.

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What they’re saying

“When asked about drafting a tight end, he cryptically referenced Sadiq, suggesting a potential pick even before the end of day 2.”

— Gerry Dulac, Steelers Reporter

“Later, when ranking potential first-round picks, he seemed to hint at Sadiq again.”

— Gerry Dulac, Steelers Reporter

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to evaluate their options at tight end leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, and it remains to be seen whether they will indeed target Kenyon Sadiq in the first round as Gerry Dulac has hinted.

The takeaway

The Steelers' potential selection of Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft would be a surprising but intriguing move, as it would address a position of need while adding a dynamic pass-catching threat to their offense. This unexpected pick could pay dividends if Sadiq lives up to his potential and forms a formidable duo with current starter Pat Freiermuth.