With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching at a fast pace, mock drafts are starting to sprout from each expert around the league. ESPN remains one of the biggest draft evaluators in football, and they just released a new mock draft.
It sees the Pittsburgh Steelers bypassing one of their most pressing offseason needs. Skipping over that position in Round 1 of the draft could spell doom.
This mock draft was done by ESPN's Matt Miller, a well-respected evaluator for the NFL Draft. One thing is certain: if the Steelers don't address their biggest needs, fans will become enraged. They want to see success, and that means beefing up the offensive side of the ball. No matter who the quarterback is in Pittsburgh next season, they need weapons to throw the ball to.
In this two-round mock draft, Miller outlines several compelling reasons behind his selections. He makes a good case, but if this becomes reality, it could be a bitter pill to swallow. With free agency still to come before the 2026 NFL Draft kicks off in Pittsburgh, it will be interesting to see how their positional needs change. A lot can be altered based on their spending on free agents.
ESPN's latest two-round mock draft sees the Pittsburgh Steelers waiting on a vital position
Steelers Mock Draft Round 1: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Going with a cornerback in the first round of this mock draft for the Steelers is an interesting choice.
It is a need that is flying under the radar during the early portion of the offseason for the team. History suggests the franchise has struggled to draft successful players in the secondary, making free agency a potentially better option. With plenty of pieces having a questionable future, Pittsburgh might have no other choice.
"The Steelers have one emerging star cornerback in Joey Porter Jr. but need to upgrade from free agents James Pierre and Asante Samuel Jr. at the opposite spot," said Miller.
Miller is right, outside of Porter being a solid starting cornerback, there could be changes this offseason. Don't discount them trying to attack the cornerback position early in the draft, especially if they have to pay Porter before the season. Avieon Terrell has strong NFL bloodlines. He is the brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell, a connection that reflects a quality the Steelers value.
READ MORE: Steelers’ post-Mike Tomlin era: 2026 mock draft ignores a vital position
Steelers Mock Draft Round 2: Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Finally, Miller adds a receiver to the Steelers in the second round of this mock draft.
While the wait to add a weapon to their offense isn't too long, many want the team to select one in the top round. The need to add talent to the position is vital this offseason. It would be wise for Pittsburgh to add pieces through both free agency and the NFL Draft, if possible. They accomplish part of that here with Zachariah Branch.
"The Steelers haven't gotten much out of Roman Wilson [third-round pick in 2024], and Calvin Austin III is set to be a free agent, so they need a No. 2 wideout."
Branch is an electric playmaker who can create plays with the ball in his hands. The Steelers need difference makers, and that is what they could possibly get with this Georgia product. Most of the fan base wants the franchise to trade up in the first round for an elite prospect at the position, but Branch is a solid backup plan. Pittsburgh normally adds a receiver on Day 2 of the draft, and they do here.