After selecting 10 players in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have several paths they can take moving forward. Training camp and the preseason will play a key role in determining how each rookie fits into the team’s plans. Some could earn significant roles as starters or reliable depth pieces, while others may struggle to see consistent playing time on the field.
The later a player is selected in the draft, the lower the odds are of making an immediate impact as a rookie, but it is not impossible.
Some of the team’s top picks should emerge as meaningful contributors heading into training camp, while others will need to fight for a roster spot. A lot can change between now and the start of the regular season, but these rookies all have plenty to prove before then.
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie are in better shape than other coming out of the draft
Succeed: Germie Bernard
Aaron Rodgers ' return could impact the role of a rookie wide receiver, but Germie Bernard should still make an immediate impact on the offense. With DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. in the mix, Bernard’s role may not be expansive, but he should remain a notable weapon for the team. The second-round pick is someone who should play meaningful snaps throughout his rookie season.
Succeed: Gennings Dunker
Few rookies have caught the attention of Steelers Nation in a positive way quite like Gennings Dunker.
He is expected to play guard, but it would not be surprising if it takes some time before he emerges as a starter. Spencer Anderson and Brock Hoffman are both in the mix for starting roles, which could delay his opportunity. Dunker played right tackle in college, and while he could eventually become the team’s starting left guard during his rookie season, that transition may not happen right away.
Succeed: Eli Heidenreich
Despite being Pittsburgh’s final pick in the draft, Eli Heidenreich is a player worth keeping an eye on moving forward. He is a versatile weapon and has drawn comparisons to Christian McCaffrey, which naturally raises intrigue. While it is unlikely he will develop into a star, he is still an interesting rookie to watch. Heidenreich must focus on earning a spot on the Steelers roster first.
Struggle: Drew Allar
It was a mixed showing for Drew Allar during rookie minicamp, as the young quarterback received a wide range of feedback. His natural arm talent is easy to spot, and he can make throws that few quarterbacks are capable of. At the same time, the areas that need improvement were also clear, particularly when it comes to his mechanics and overall consistency.
The Steelers appear committed to reworking his technique from the ground up, which could burn away his rookie year.
Struggle: Max Iheanachor
Much of Max Iheanachor’s early playing time will depend on Broderick Jones’s injury status and how Dylan Cook performs. If either Jones or Cook proves ready to handle the left tackle role, the Steelers may be comfortable allowing Iheanachor to continue developing on the sidelines. He is expected to eventually become the team’s starting right tackle, although that role may come later than expected.
Struggle: Daylen Everette
Many have overlooked Daylen Everette since the Steelers selected him in the draft. The secondary is a crowded group, and Everette appears poised to serve primarily in a depth role during his rookie season. He brings versatility to the secondary and could be called upon to help fill gaps if players are forced to miss time. Unless that happens, Everette may have difficulty carving out a consistent role.
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