With tons of news surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers leaking out of the NFL Combine, the club is trying to get to know these prospects more. There have been some interesting trends regarding which position the team has met with during the event. That could potentially trigger different prospects targeted by the organization when the 2026 NFL Draft rolls around in April.
One constant need that the team would love to address this offseason is at the receiver position.
The Steelers struggled to overcome having only one reliable receiver last season, but this isn't a new issue. Pittsburgh failed to have a strong duo over the past two campaigns. Initially, George Pickens carried the receiving corps, followed by DK Metcalf taking on that responsibility last season. The Steelers have taken notice of this problem.
At the NFL Combine, the franchise met with numerous prospects across a wide range of positions. Adding a receiver in free agency and possibly the draft could be the top priority for the Steelers to finally solve their plaguing offensive issue.
One playmaker who stands out among the crop is USC Trojan Makai Lemon. He spoke to the media and created a connection to Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers draft target WR Makai Lemon made some waves at the NFL Combine
Although many fans have begun to sour on Aaron Rodgers returning for another season with the Steelers, prospects don't hold the same thought. Rodgers is a legendary player, and many entering the NFL hold him in high regard. Lemon is one of those players, and he should be near the top of Pittsburgh's draft board heading into the event. He would be a terrific fit for their offense.
"Aaron Rodgers would be pretty cool,” Lemon said after being asked who he would like to catch a touchdown pass from.
Lemon certainly likes Rodgers a lot, and who wouldn't? He is a future Hall of Famer who commands the lockerroom. Steelers Nation might not hold the quarterback in such high regard, but those entering the draft process still do. The USC product might not have a high chance of being selected by Pittsburgh, but it is clear that he is interested in them if Rodgers returns.
According to NFL Network's draft expert Daniel Jeremiah, Lemon is ranked as his tenth-best prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. He also listed the weapon as the second-best playmaker behind Carnell Tate. It is obvious that if the Steelers want to pick Lemon in the top round, they must find a way to trade up. If they don't, there is almost no chance of him falling to the 21st overall selection.
It's move up or miss out.
Lemon remains a top receiver on the board, and he should remain high on the Steelers' list of options. Unless they locate a quality receiver or two in free agency, this need will continue to be linked to the organization well beyond the NFL Combine. It remains likely that Rodgers will be the team's starting quarterback in 2026, which would create a dream come true for Lemon.