As the college football playoffs kick into high gear with the first round of the tournament, don't be shocked to witness some activity around the 2026 NFL Draft. Several top prospects in April’s draft will be in action this week, and the Steelers will be monitoring them closely.
It could influence their draft plans depending on how different prospects perform.
There will be some headlining quarterbacks who could be top choices for the Steelers, but don't make the mistake of looking solely at that position. Pittsburgh is in the market for a handful of needs at key positions this offseason. The 2026 NFL Draft will be here before you know it, and the college football playoffs will directly affect many of these prospects' draft projections going forward.
Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of draft targets to monitor in the first round of CFP
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Fewer draft prospects have more riding on their first-round performance than quarterback Ty Simpson.
He gained plenty of hype throughout the season, but he struggled in the SEC Championship game. He must show that he can compete against NFL-level competition, and it starts in the first round of the playoffs. A big performance here could witness Simpson shoot up draft boards.
Deion Burks, WR, Oklahoma
Keep an eye on a couple of receivers going into the playoffs, and Deion Burks is a prospect many have been overlooking. He's projected to go sometime on Day 2 of the draft, and he could raise his value with a terrific performance. The explosive receiver didn't live up to expectations after a down season at Oklahoma in 2025. A big-time outing could do him plenty of favors with scouts.
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Dante Moore, QB, Oregon
Other than Simpson, Dante Moore is someone who must overcome tougher competition in the playoffs. He has delivered impressive numbers in his first year as Oregon’s starter, but he must elevate his play against tougher players. Moore is someone in many mock drafts to the Steelers, but he must find ways to produce strong performances as the tournament continues to wind down.
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
He's hovering around the first round projection going into the playoffs, but KC Concepcion has a shot at cementing that status.
He is an explosive playmaker who could significantly boost his draft stock with a primetime performance. Pittsburgh will be linked to the twitchy receiver throughout the draft process. Concepcion produced a terrific season both as a receiver and a punt returner at Texas A&M.