Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Omar Khan shared their philosophies on wide receivers, the offensive line, and draft strategy during Monday's pre-draft press conference. McCarthy emphasized versatility for receivers and confidence in the offensive line while expressing interest in using many picks. Khan praised a recent pre-draft visitor and clarified selection criteria.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy detailed his wide receiver requirements, stressing the need for players who can move around the formation to challenge defenses and simplify plays for the quarterback. 'I just never, ever viewed having a smaller receiver just to run slot plays,' McCarthy told reporters. He highlighted that slot receivers must excel on option routes and have the athleticism to win outside the numbers, while outside receivers need to master deep sideline routes dubbed the 'Autobahn.' Prospects like USC's Makai Lemon, who visited Pittsburgh, align with these traits despite slot-heavy college usage, according to Khan, who called Lemon 'outstanding' after meetings in Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. Khan added that the team's first-round pick at No. 21 does not have to be a pre-draft visitor, dismissing it as coincidence rather than necessity, and rejecting smokescreen notions for hosted players. McCarthy voiced confidence in the offensive line's blend of veterans and youth, including Zach Frazier at center and Troy Fautanu at right tackle, but noted the need to keep adding, especially amid Broderick Jones' neck injury recovery. Khan downplayed any setback reports, saying 'nothing’s changed' with Jones' health. On the draft, McCarthy advocated for 'draft and develop,' aiming to use more than 10 of the team's 12 picks to build depth. He praised the 2026 quarterback class as having suitable options for Pittsburgh's cold weather, with pre-draft visitors like Carson Beck in consideration. Khan affirmed the value of pro days despite McCarthy attending only Georgia's amid the coaching transition.