While the 2026 NFL Draft class is a bit underwhelming at certain positions, it holds plenty of exciting wide receiver prospects. That's great news for a team like the Pittsburgh Steelers, who will likely be looking to add another pass catcher in the offseason.
The Steelers have multiple needs on their roster, but they'll have a few options available to them if they choose to spend their first-round pick on a receiver.
One of the most intriguing prospects in this class is Washington wideout Denzel Boston. The 22-year-old is a contested catch threat with the potential to grow into a star receiver at the next level.
Washington WR Denzel Boston 2026 NFL Draft scouting report
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 209 pounds
Expected 40-yard dash time: 4.50-4.54
Recruiting: 3-star prospect, No. 130 ranked WR nationally
College production: 132 catches, 1,781 yards, 20 touchdowns
Positives:
- Strong hands make him a contested catch threat in the red zone.
- Has the physicality to play through contact.
- Uses his body positioning to box defenders out at the catch point.
- Strong release package gives him an initial step on press cornerbacks.
- Shows a developed awareness of soft spots in zone coverage.
Negatives:
- Struggles to create separation against man coverage.
- Did not show a complete route tree at Washington.
- Lacks speed to threaten defenses over the top.
Denzel Boston NFL player comparison: Courtland Sutton
Sutton came out of SMU as a physically imposing wideout without much refinement to his game. He has since developed as a route runner, especially on in-breaking routes. The current Denver Broncos receiver's ability to flash his hands late and consistently come up with contested catches made him especially dangerous in the red zone.
Boston shows many of the same strengths that Sutton did as a prospect, and he'll need to work on similar areas to become a more well-rounded receiver.
Denzel Boston NFL Draft grade: 2nd round
It's easy to watch Boston's highlight reel and assume that the contested catches he made at Washington will immediately carry over into the NFL. But without the ability to consistently gain separation, his skill set may not translate to the league as well as some hope. He still possesses the physicality and catching ability to develop into a top target, but his route running needs significant improvement before he's ready for a full workload. Still, his upside could be worth taking a chance on in the late first or early second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.