Steelers Focus 2026 Draft on Special Teams, Versatility

Pittsburgh looks to shore up undervalued positions to build a more complete roster

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:14am

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes representing various elements of a football game or match, conveying the strategic and tactical nature of the Steelers' draft plans.The Steelers' strategic draft approach aims to build a more complete, adaptable roster by investing in undervalued positions like special teams and the trenches.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial offseason as they aim to turn a solid roster into a genuine contender. According to the author, the team's 2026 draft strategy should prioritize upgrading special teams, finding a traditional fullback, securing a long-term punter, adding a versatile outside corner who can contribute on coverage units, and bolstering the defensive line with a true nose tackle. These 'underrated' needs, if addressed with precision, can become force multipliers that lift the entire organization.

Why it matters

The Steelers' approach reflects a broader NFL trend towards building durable, flexible rosters that can excel in all three phases of the game. By focusing on special teams, versatility, and the 'dirty work' positions, Pittsburgh can establish a sustainable identity and culture that complements their existing talent.

The details

The Steelers have holes to fill at kick and punt returner after losing Kenneth Gainwell and Calvin Austin III. They also need a traditional fullback to help establish a physical, clock-controlling identity on offense. At punter, the team must find a long-term solution to stabilize their field position battle. On defense, they lack a classic nose tackle to anchor the run defense, and they need to replace the versatile James Pierre at outside corner/gunner. Addressing these 'underrated' needs with smart, cost-effective draft picks can pay dividends by creating a more complete, adaptable roster.

  • The Steelers face these roster gaps heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Kenneth Gainwell

A former Steelers kick and punt returner who has since departed the team.

Calvin Austin III

A former Steelers kick and punt returner who has since departed the team.

Connor Heyward

A former Steelers fullback who has since left the team.

James Pierre

A former Steelers outside cornerback and special teams contributor who has since departed the team.

Cameron Johnston

A punter recently added by the Steelers to help stabilize their special teams.

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What’s next

The Steelers will look to address these roster needs during the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in late April.

The takeaway

The Steelers' 2026 draft strategy reflects a pragmatic, big-picture approach to roster building. By prioritizing undervalued positions like special teams, fullback, and nose tackle, they can establish a durable, flexible identity that complements their existing talent and gives them a sustainable path to contention in the modern NFL.