The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Dreams came true for top prospects as mock drafts were shattered in real time. Unfortunately, for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the night took an unexpected turn. Their selection of Max Iheanachor with the 21st overall pick became one of the biggest surprises of the evening.
Sure, it added much-needed depth at a questionable left tackle position, but it also left several promising prospects sitting on the board.
Luckily, Omar Khan’s front office is not limited to one night. The draft is a marathon, and Pittsburgh still has plenty of opportunities to make noise. Here are a few players I believe could bring excitement back to the Steelers’ weekend.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can still recover after a disappointing first round with any of these impressive Day 2 prospects
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
The biggest disappointment after Day 1 was not who Pittsburgh selected at 21. It was how quickly the Philadelphia Eagles swooped in and stole a target right from under their noses. Before Khan could blink, Philadelphia traded up to the 20th pick and snatched Makai Lemon. Watching that unfold in real time was gut-wrenching.
Still, there are wide receivers with something to offer left on the board, and Germie Bernard is one of them.
Bernard is no stranger to flying under the radar. Playing alongside Alabama star Ryan Williams, he quietly developed into a reliable weapon and eventually became a primary target. His vision with the ball in his hands and his clean footwork make him dangerous after the catch. He fits the mold of the WR3 Pittsburgh desperately needs and should still be available early on Day 2.
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
Improving the defense may not be the loudest priority this offseason, but it is certainly part of Mike McCarthy’s long-term vision. Maintaining a strong defensive identity has always been part of Pittsburgh’s DNA, and adding depth in the secondary would go a long way.
D’Angelo Ponds is one of the most technically sound cornerbacks still available. He thrives in zone coverage and has the speed to keep up with receivers downfield. As a Second-Team Associated Press All-American, he recorded ten pass breakups and consistently made life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
Yes, his 5'8 5/8'' frame is undersized, but he would not be asked to carry the load immediately. Playing alongside established names like Jamel Dean and Joey Porter Jr. would give him time to develop.
He could carve out an early role as a nickel corner if he proves himself in camp.
Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
If size is a concern, Malik Muhammad offers a different profile. At six feet tall, he brings more length to the position and has the tools of a future starter. His physicality in coverage makes completions tough, and he shows a willingness to compete on every snap.
In 2025, Muhammad recorded 30 tackles, two interceptions, and a sack, showcasing his versatility. With the right coaching, particularly under Patrick Graham, he could develop into a reliable boundary corner.
If Pittsburgh wants a defensive back with a higher ceiling, Muhammad is worth serious consideration early on Day 2. I believe the former Longhorn is a gem in this draft class and would love to see him find a role in Pittsburgh.
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Pittsburgh’s first-round investment in Iheanachor was both risky and safe at the same time. It addressed a need but required patience due to his inexperience. Jacob Rodriguez, on the other hand, offers a more immediate return while still carrying upside.
The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year is a tackling machine. He led Texas Tech with 128 tackles last season and consistently flew around the field making plays. Rodriguez has the instincts and motor to become the heart of a defense. For a franchise that prides itself on toughness, landing a player like him on Day 2 would feel like a steal.
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Passing on a wide receiver in the first round was a tough pill to swallow, but Day 2 presents a chance at redemption. If Omar Khan wants to win back the fan base, targeting a playmaker like Denzel Boston would be a strong start.
Boston is widely viewed as one of the best players still available. At six-foot-three with a 35-inch vertical, he is a nightmare matchup for defenders. In 2025, he tied for ninth in the FBS with 11 receiving touchdowns, proving he can produce at a high level. He brings size, athleticism, and big-play ability to an offense that needs another weapon.
The first round may not have gone the way Steelers fans hoped, but the story is far from over. With multiple picks still in hand, Pittsburgh has every opportunity to turn things around and make this draft one to remember.
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