A successful 2026 NFL Draft will be the stepping stone for a handful of NFL franchises. The Pittsburgh Steelers reside in this group. Coaching staff changes and off-season declarations were followed by intentional pre-draft visits. The stars appear aligned for a successful evening for Omar Khan’s front office. But are they overlooking a key sleeper?
According to ESPN’s Adam Rittenburg, they are not the only executives failing to recognize Louisville standout Chris Bell’s potential.
His evaluation of the 6'2" receiver is good news for franchises with multiple roster holes. The First-Team All-ACC selection led Louisville with 72 receptions, 917 yards, and six touchdowns. He has a unique ability to make difficult throws easier for inaccurate passers. His physicality allows him to fend off opposing defensive backs. When combined with his immense speed, Bell becomes a multifaceted weapon who can impact the game at all three levels.
Unfortunately, a torn ACL injury has hurt Bell’s draft stock, making him a projected third-round target. Still, he has shown consistent progression throughout his collegiate career. Each season revealed growth in his route running, awareness, and confidence. A roster spot in the NFL will only recharge Bell’s battery, giving him an opportunity to prove doubters wrong.
And the Steelers could use that kind of energy.
It is impossible to deny Pittsburgh’s need for an impactful skill player. The offense has lacked a spark for several seasons. Without a reliable presence in the slot and consistent playmakers on the outside, Mike McCarthy’s offense risks becoming predictable and stagnant.
Omar Khan cannot ignore Chris Bell's ceiling during the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 NFL Draft
While quarterback remains a major concern, the vacancy under center is meaningless without dependable targets. A young and motivated wide receiver may be the best return on investment for Pittsburgh’s 21st overall selection. However, if unexpected opportunities arise to improve other positions, this draft class has enough receiver depth to address the need later without sacrificing value.
Prospects like Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane or Georgia’s Monroe Freeling could give Khan a reasonable excuse to temporarily put the wide receiver search on hold. Strengthening the trenches is never a poor decision. Still, at some point, the Steelers must prioritize adding playmakers who can directly influence the scoreboard.
Bell keeps the dream of Pittsburgh’s offensive resurgence alive, even if they invest in an offensive lineman or defensive back in the first round. He profiles as a reliable boundary target who would complement the playing styles of DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. His ability to stretch the field while maintaining physical dominance at the catch point makes him an intriguing fit.
For the right price, Bell allows the front office to remain flexible and explore other areas of the draft board without neglecting the receiver position entirely.
Exchanging a third-or fourth-round pick for Louisville’s primary target does not sound like a risky gamble. In fact, it feels like the kind of calculated move that smart organizations capitalize on. UConn’s Skyler Bell is another prospect worth considering if Pittsburgh prefers to wait until Day 2. His recent 30-day visit with the franchise signals legitimate interest and due diligence from the front office.
Still, Rittenburg’s insight uncovers a deeper truth about Pittsburgh’s draft strategy. The options are there. The talent is available. It ultimately comes down to execution.
There is no longer an excuse for mediocrity heading into the upcoming season. And Khan’s groundwork is quietly building a strong foundation for what could be a defining moment in the franchise’s future.
Add us as a preferred source on Google