Steelers Could Draft Two Wide Receivers Early

Beat writer Ray Fittipaldo suggests Pittsburgh may target multiple receivers in the first three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:58pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a football game, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic action on the field.The Steelers' search for wide receiver talent could lead them to target multiple prospects early in the 2026 NFL Draft.Today in Pittsburgh

According to Pittsburgh Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo, the team could draft two wide receivers in the first three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Steelers' receiving corps is a major concern, with only one proven weapon in DK Metcalf, who struggled last season due to a lack of support. The draft class is considered strong at the position, with several top prospects expected to be available in the early rounds.

Why it matters

The Steelers have five picks in the top 100 of the 2026 draft, giving them the opportunity to address their wide receiver needs multiple times. Drafting two receivers in the first three rounds could provide a significant boost to the team's passing attack and help quarterback Kenny Pickett develop.

The details

Fittipaldo highlights prospects like Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, and Denzel Boston as potential targets for the Steelers in the early rounds. The team's strategy will depend on their draft position and the availability of top receivers, but Fittipaldo suggests they could secure two solid receivers in the second and third rounds even if they don't take one in the first round.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

DK Metcalf

A wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is the team's only proven weapon at the position.

Roman Wilson

A wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers who has potential but hasn't had many opportunities to showcase it.

Calvin Austin III

A wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is set to become a free agent.

Carnell Tate

A highly-rated wide receiver prospect expected to be available in the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Makai Lemon

A highly-rated wide receiver prospect expected to be available in the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“Don't be surprised if the Pittsburgh Steelers draft two wide receivers in the first three rounds of the NFL Draft.”

— Ray Fittipaldo, Steelers beat writer

What’s next

The Steelers will have to evaluate their options and determine the best strategy for addressing their wide receiver needs in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Steelers' wide receiver position is a major concern, and the team may need to invest multiple early-round picks to bolster the position. The strength of the 2026 draft class at wide receiver could provide the Steelers with an opportunity to significantly improve their passing attack.