Top 5 Overlooked Draft Needs for Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft with an updated roster, having made several impactful moves this offseason. Under the guidance of General Manager Omar Khan and Assistant GM Andy Weidl, the team has made key acquisitions including wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., cornerback Jamel Dean, and running back Rico Dowdle. Despite these positive changes, the roster still has pressing gaps that need to be addressed.

The Top 5 Overlooked Draft Needs for the Steelers

As the team prepares for the draft, here are five overlooked needs that the Steelers must consider to enhance their competitiveness.

1. Kick and Punt Returner

With the departure of Kenneth Gainwell and Calvin Austin III, the Steelers have lost significant talent in their return game. Gainwell returned 26 kickoffs for 633 yards last season, highlighting the void left by his exit. Currently, running backs Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson have only eight kick returns between them, and neither is expected to take on return duties in 2026.

• Top return prospects include Iowa’s Kaden Wetjen and Montana’s Michael Wortham.
• Pitt’s Desmond Reid and Kentucky’s Kendrick Law are additional candidates to consider.

The Steelers have 12 draft picks, making it pivotal to address the return game ideally on Day 3.

2. Fullback

With Mike McCarthy’s coaching style, the fullback role is crucial for the Steelers. However, Connor Heyward’s signing with the Raiders has left a gap. The need for a physical player to enhance the running game is evident.

• Prospects like Ben Bredeson from Michigan and Riley Nowakowski from Indiana could fit the role.
• Truman Werremeyer from North Dakota State is another option worth exploring.

Filling this position on Day 3 is advisable to align with McCarthy’s old-school approach.

3. Punter

Although Cameron Johnston was signed to rectify last year’s punting issues, he is 34 and has faced injuries. Johnston averaged 44.5 yards per punt last season, but his net was a concerning 32.4 yards.

• Potential draft targets include Georgia’s Brett Thorson, Florida’s Tommy Doman, and Syracuse’s Jack Stonehouse.

Selecting a young punter could provide a long-term solution for the Steelers’ punting game.

4. Outside Corner/Gunner

The Steelers have excelled in special teams, largely thanks to players like Ben Skowronek and James Pierre. However, Pierre’s departure puts pressure on the team to find depth at the outside corner position and bolster the gunner role.

• Brandin Echols and Roman Wilson could step up, but more size is needed behind Joey Porter Jr. and Jamel Dean.
• Names like Malik Muhammad from Texas and Ohio State’s Lorenzo Styles are potential additions.

5. Nose Tackle

To reinforce their defense, the Steelers must consider adding a true nose tackle. Keeanu Benton has shown inconsistency, and securing a robust player at this position is essential for their run defense strategy.

• Notable prospects include Kayden McDonald from Ohio State and Iowa State’s Domonique Orange.
• Florida State’s Darnell Jackson Jr. and Alabama’s Tim Keenan III are also viable options.

Seeking a reliable nose tackle in the draft aligns with McCarthy’s vision for returning to a physical defensive style.

In conclusion, the Steelers have a unique opportunity in the 2026 NFL Draft to address these overlooked needs, enhancing their competitiveness in the coming season.