The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting four draft prospects at their facility on Friday, March 20, 2026. The visitors include North Dakota State QB Cole Payton, Washington CB Tacario Davis, Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez, and Georgia Tech OG Keylan Rutledge, according to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Brian Batko.
Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported the group via Twitter: “North Dakota State QB Cole Payton is one of four intriguing pre-draft visitors today for the Steelers. Also: • Washington CB Tacario Davis (6-4, 194) • Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez (6-1, 231) • Georgia Tech G Keylan Rutledge (6-4, 316).” This confirms Payton's visit—which he announced to reporters after North Dakota State's pro day on March 19 (covered previously)—alongside the other three, all projected as potential Day 2 picks. Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez had a breakout 2026 season with 128 tackles, 11 TFLs, four INTs, six PDs, and one sack; he finished fifth in Heisman voting and won the Bednarik Award. Steelers Depot graded Rodriguez and Rutledge as long-term starters. Georgia Tech OG Keylan Rutledge impressed at the Senior Bowl as a physical guard who could replace Isaac Seumalo; he is the second OL visitor after Miami OT Markel Bell. Washington CB Tacario Davis (transfer from Arizona) had two INTs last season and 25 career PDs; at 6-4 with elite athleticism (high RAS), he aligns with the Steelers' preference for tall corners, despite recent CB additions like Jamel Dean and Asante Samuel Jr. The team has also visited CBs Ephesians Prysock and Chris Johnson. To date, the Steelers have hosted two QBs, two OTs, one off-ball LB, and three CBs in pre-draft activities.