Steelers Reveal Top 10 Draft Picks in Franchise History

Mike Wagner, a safety selected 9th overall, named one of the best ever

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:47pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in the Steelers' black, gold, and white colors, depicting a football game scene broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes.The Steelers' storied draft history is celebrated through a cubist-inspired visual that captures the team's dynamic play on the field.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is counting down the top 10 draft picks in Steelers history leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft. At number 9 on the list is safety Mike Wagner, who was selected 9th overall by the Steelers in the 1971 NFL Draft and went on to have a standout career with the team.

Why it matters

The Steelers are one of the most successful franchises in NFL history, thanks in large part to their ability to identify and develop top talent through the draft. Highlighting the team's best draft picks provides insight into the organization's scouting and player development prowess over the decades.

The details

Wagner played 11 seasons with the Steelers from 1971 to 1981, making the Pro Bowl four times and helping the team win two Super Bowl championships. He was known for his hard-hitting style of play and was a key member of the Steelers' dominant defense during their dynasty in the 1970s.

  • The Steelers will reveal their top 10 draft picks in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
  • Mike Wagner was selected 9th overall by the Steelers in the 1971 NFL Draft.

The players

Mike Wagner

A safety who was selected 9th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1971 NFL Draft and went on to have a standout 11-year career with the team, making the Pro Bowl four times and winning two Super Bowl championships.

Pittsburgh Steelers

One of the most successful franchises in NFL history, known for their ability to identify and develop top talent through the draft.

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What’s next

The Steelers will continue to reveal their top 10 draft picks in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, culminating in the announcement of the #1 pick on April 23.

The takeaway

The Steelers' ability to consistently draft and develop elite talent has been a major factor in the team's sustained success over the decades. Highlighting their top draft picks provides a glimpse into the organization's scouting prowess and commitment to building championship-caliber rosters.