Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan at a press conference to introduce head coach Mike McCarthy on Jan. 27, 2026. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
The NFL and the Pittsburgh Steelers are charging full steam toward the 2026 NFL Draft. With less than two weeks until the first round begins, Pittsburgh is finalizing its draft board. Sportsbooks and betting markets have already started identifying the most likely positions for the Steelers’ first pick.
According to those markets, three positions stand out for the 21st overall selection:
Wide receiver (39%)
Offensive lineman (32%)
Cornerback/Safety (15%)
Michael Pittman at his introductory press conference on March 13, 2026. — Pittsburgh Steelers
Wide receiver remains the clear favorite among media and fans. Although the Steelers traded for Michael Pittman Jr., the position group still has room to grow. Right now, the top four options are D.K. Metcalf, Pittman, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek. Pittsburgh could look to add fresh receiving talent early—and possibly more than once—in this draft.
Offensive line ranks second in the betting markets. The Steelers must replace Isaac Seumalo, and questions remain about Broderick Jones’ long-term role. Analysts have already mocked several offensive tackles to Pittsburgh in the first round.
The cornerback/safety group has also gained momentum. Caleb Downs’ draft stock has faced some medical concerns, and the Steelers recently hosted Emmanuel McNeil-Warren for a Top-30 visit. Safety proved to be a major weakness last season, forcing Jalen Ramsey to step in at free safety.
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey in a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 4, 2026. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Quarterback trails just behind the top three at 14%. At the moment, Alabama’s Ty Simpson appears to be the only realistic first-round option on Pittsburgh’s radar. While the Steelers haven’t ruled him out, their interest seems to lean more toward Day 2 prospects. Drew Allar, Carson Beck, and Garrett Nussmeier stand out as potential targets, particularly in the third round.
With less than two weeks remaining, the Steelers are closing in on their decision for the 21st overall pick—the first selection of the Mike McCarthy era in Pittsburgh.
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