During their pre‑draft press conference, general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike McCarthy met with the media. The Pittsburgh Steelers were careful not to reveal much about their draft strategy, but they may have let something slip. Recent comments about a top prospect could hint at their true intentions. It is possible the Steelers are targeting wide receiver Makai Lemon early.
During their media availability on Monday, both Khan and McCarthy were asked about Lemon’s recent pre‑draft visit with the organization. The visit is a key piece of the Steelers’ draft puzzle, as each of Khan’s first-round picks has visited the franchise since he took over in 2023. Lemon’s visit reportedly went well, and Khan appeared eager about the possibility of bringing him to Pittsburgh.
"He was outstanding...excellent time spent," Khan said about Lemon's visit.
While Khan may have simply been complimenting Lemon, it is worth noting that some draft speculation has questioned the USC product’s personality. He may not be considered a toxic presence, but some evaluators have suggested he could become a distraction.
Pittsburgh is no stranger to managing those situations, and based on the comments from the organization, Lemon’s pre‑draft visit appears to have quieted those concerns.
Pittsburgh Steelers' Khan and McCarthy might covet Makai Lemon the most in the draft
Landing Lemon in the first round would not be an easy task for Pittsburgh.
The Steelers currently hold the 21st overall pick, but they still have a path to make a move. With 12 draft picks at their disposal, the team has enough capital to trade up for a top prospect if needed. Acquiring Lemon would likely require such a move before the front office considers alternative options. He is an electric playmaker, and McCarthy did not hesitate to show his enthusiasm.
"He was awesome," McCarthy commented on Lemon's time in Pittsburgh.
It will be interesting to see how the first round unfolds for the Steelers. While the team clearly wants to address the wide receiver position, nothing is guaranteed on draft night. If Khan and his staff see the board fall unfavorably, they may be forced to pivot to another direction. Lemon is widely expected to go in the top half of the first round, making it unlikely he will still be available at No. 21.
A trade remains a realistic possibility for the Steelers, especially after Khan and McCarthy offered glowing remarks about Lemon and his time with the team.
This draft is shaping up to be an intriguing one for the franchise as it works to balance building a contender for the upcoming season while also planning for the long term. Lemon would be an excellent addition, but turning that possibility into reality will be a challenge.
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