The Pittsburgh Steelers have once again put together a competent season. But it's impossible to watch them play and come away believing that their roster is complete. There are still areas that need to be addressed, including the wide receiver position. Outside of DK Metcalf, the Steelers are lacking a reliable receiver.
Luckily, the 2026 NFL Draft should be loaded with pass-catching talent. As the College Football Playoff gets rolling, Steelers fans have a few prospects to pay attention to.
Oklahoma wideout Deion Burks put together the best performance of his collegiate career this weekend against Alabama, forcing the Steelers to take notice.
Pittsburgh Steelers' ideal WR draft fit just became obvious
With football fans (and NFL scouts) across the country tuning in, Burks chose the perfect time to put on a show. The senior receiver caught seven passes for 107 yards on the day, including a 37-yard touchdown explosion early in the fourth quarter. He posed a threat to one of the most talented defenses in college football, leading both teams in receiving yards in the game. It was his highest yardage output of the season and only the second time that he has eclipsed 100 yards.
Burks isn't exactly the prototypical draft prospect. At 5'9" and 188 pounds, he's significantly undersized. But what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in speed and quickness. He's as explosive as almost any prospect in the draft, both before and after the catch. His route-running ability may be his most underrated quality, as he's consistently able to create separation at the top of his routes.
Many NFL scouts view Burks as a late-round pick because of his limitations and lack of elite production. After his performance against Alabama, his stock may rise. With a solid showing at the NFL Combine, the Oklahoma receiver could solidify his spot as a day-two pick.
The young wideout would fit well next to Metcalf, working underneath in the space created by the larger receiver's vertical threat. He would give the Steelers a good option for quick passes with his ability to turn short catches into long gains.
The Steelers may choose to address the receiver position in the first round. Prospects like Makai Lemon, Carnell Tate, and Denzel Boston could step in as top options immediately. But if they opt to wait until later in the draft, Burks should earn strong consideration.