While each mock draft should be taken with a grain of salt, they can also show trends. As names start to become associated with teams, mock drafts will shift to players being assigned to specific clubs. The Pittsburgh Steelers clearly want to upgrade their receiver position this offseason, and most 2026 mock drafts have them addressing that need early. It could be their first-round pick this year.
NFL Network's draft expert, Daniel Jeremiah, has released his latest first-round mock draft. It provides some interesting insight as the 2026 NFL Draft inches closer. Deciding how this round will play out between now and the event being two months away, is challenging. One thing is certain: there will be changes for these prospects' respective draft stocks between now and the draft.
Keep an eye on which names continue to be linked to the Steelers in mock drafts. One could end up being their top pick.
One name continues to be closely linked to Pittsburgh in these speculative articles, and that trend persisted in Jeremiah’s latest simulation. He has the Steelers taking Washington receiver Denzel Boston with their top choice. That's a common outcome in many mock drafts right now.
Pittsburgh Steelers select explosive WR Denzel Boston in latest 2026 mock draft
Gaining another quality receiver to pair with DK Metcalf is something the Steelers must accomplish this offseason. They just paid Metcalf top dollar last year, so many point to the draft being the team's top place to locate and upgrade. There are quality playmakers in the 2026 NFL Draft, and Pittsburgh should come away with one. Taking a receiver in the first round makes too much sense.
"Boston makes too much sense here. The Steelers would have two power forwards on the outside with the rookie playing opposite DK Metcalf," Jeremiah explained.
Boston is considered the fourth-best receiver on the board, but that could change. Everyone is searching for quality playmakers to boost their offense, and he could rise on draft boards as the pre-draft process plays out. The Steelers would love to land him, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, or Jordyn Tyson in the top round. All four could be selected before their top pick, which would be a disaster.
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Adding Boston to their offense would help upgrade the receiver position. He is a big-bodied weapon known for overpowering defenders. The Washington product has produced strong numbers during his collegiate career, with his best two campaigns coming in the past two years. Boston produced 1,715 receiving yards and caught 20 touchdowns during that span.
He could provide the electricity this team has been dying for.
Pittsburgh must locate an upgrade to help alleviate the pressure on Metcalf. Boston remains a top prospect linked to the Steelers in many mock drafts, as the fourth-ranked receiver who could realistically be available at No. 21 overall.
Depending on how the first round of the NFL Draft shakes out, don't be surprised if the team decides to trade up for a top receiver when it's all said and done.