Safety typically isn't a premium draft position, but exceptions are made for potentially special talents like Oregon standout Dillon Thieneman. He's widely expected to be a first-round pick in 2026, notably in the Pittsburgh Steelers' range, and one team insider seems quite interested in him.
It's almost as if Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is trying to speak Thieneman winding up with the Steelers into existence. The former highlighted the latter twice in a recent live chat with fans ($).
The Steelers need defensive back depth and long-term answers for an aging secondary. Thieneman's a Swiss Army knife who fits both bills in spades. He's a three-year collegiate starter who can line up virtually anywhere with a strong résumé and a pro-ready build (6 feet, 201 pounds).
Taking an offensive lineman or a wide receiver can't be ruled out. However, it "wouldn't surprise" Dulac if Pittsburgh took Thieneman with this year's 21st pick. The longtime Steelers beat writer even went out on a limb and preferred the Ducks star ahead of several intriguing names.
Pittsburgh Steelers voice plants flag on Oregon DB Dillon Thieneman ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
Dulac said he'd choose Thieneman over Vega Ioane, Jordyn Tyson, C.J. Allen, and Caleb Banks if they're all available at the No. 21 spot. That's some lofty praise; all of them are among the top options at their respective positions.
Relative value aside, Thieneman is one of the top incoming rookies and could prove to be a bargain for Pittsburgh (or whoever lands him). He's the No. 11-ranked prospect on Pro Football Focus' (PFF) big board and 20th on ESPN's overall list. His versatile skill set would be an exciting addition to new Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham's group, so Dulac's apparent infatuation is warranted.
Thieneman amassed 96 tackles (3.5 for loss), five pass deflections, two interceptions, and a sack across 15 games in 2025. His efforts yielded an 89.9 PFF grade, good for eighth among 914 qualified safeties. Albeit an above-average contributor in all facets, he particularly thrived in coverage (90.5).
Thanks to an incredibly high football IQ, Thieneman reads offenses so quickly; it's arguably a greater asset than his outstanding physical tools. He possesses an elite blend of speed and explosiveness, as evidenced by an impressive 9.71 Relative Athletic Score (RAS). For context, that's 39th out of 1,312 strong safeties since 1987.