With 12 picks at their disposal in the 2026 NFL Draft, it’s unlikely the Pittsburgh Steelers will end up using all of them. Those selections could serve as valuable ammunition to trade up early and make impact additions. Omar Khan is not known for staying passive, and his aggressive approach as general manager should help the team secure meaningful upgrades throughout the draft.
Heading into this mock draft, the Steelers recognize their urgent need to add a quality receiver to pair with DK Metcalf. They also must address multiple holes in the secondary, with several key players expected to depart in free agency. An underlying defensive issue could also lead to a surprising pick early in the draft.
This mock draft highlights how Pittsburgh can navigate trades to build a strong foundation for its incoming rookie class.
Pittsburgh Steelers mock draft exposes how aggressive they could be in trades if they desire
Round 1 of the mock draft arrives, and the Steelers take a significant risk by staying put.
They play the waiting game after several unsuccessful attempts to trade up. Fortunately for them, one of the top three receivers on the board slides. In this scenario, they reach an agreement with the Lions on a reasonable deal. Pittsburgh moves up five spots and parts with the later of their three third‑round picks.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 1 (Via Lions): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
It might seem unlikely, but if Jordyn Tyson's pre-draft process continues to struggle like it did to start the NFL Combine, he could slip. He is a talented receiver and could be the best from this class, but he is also a risk. Tyson has struggled with injuries throughout his collegiate career, and that could sink his draft stock. Pittsburgh has been willing to take prospects with injury concerns, and they gamble here.
As the Steelers enter the second round of the mock draft, they notice a cornerback beginning to slip. They cannot afford to trade into the top 40 in this scenario after already moving up for Tyson, but they wait just long enough. Khan then offers their original third‑round pick to move up 11 spots. It isn’t a steep asking price from the Saints, and it gives Pittsburgh a valuable opportunity.
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Steelers Mock Draft Round 2 (Via Saints): Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
After trading up for the second time in this mock draft, the Steelers select Colton Hood out of Tennessee.
He has often been overshadowed by the potential of his teammate Jermod McCoy, who spent this past season recovering from a season‑ending injury. In McCoy’s absence, Hood stepped up and delivered an impressive performance. He plays with confidence, embraces physicality, and isn’t afraid to press opposing receivers. His ability to excel in press coverage places him on Pittsburgh’s radar.
Steelers Mock Draft Round 3 (Via Cowboys): Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
One notable takeaway from the Combine has been the Steelers’ strong interest in linebackers. It suggests they may look to address the position early in the draft, leaving several options on the table. In this mock draft, they select Jacob Rodriguez early in the third round. Rodriguez is an undersized linebacker who consistently makes plays, and the number of turnovers he generated was astounding.
Combined with a much better combine than anyone could have expected, and he has the makings of a steal this late in the draft.