ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller has issued a cautious outlook on the 2026 NFL draft, identifying only 11 prospects with first-round grades. This slim number raises concerns for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who face roster needs in a potentially shallow talent pool. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss emerges as a notable prospect amid uncertainty about his eligibility.
ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller recently provided a sobering assessment of the 2026 NFL draft class, noting just 11 prospects who merit first-round grades. This figure is even lower than the 13 he awarded for the 2025 class, which was already the fewest in his evaluations. As Miller stated on January 3, 2026, "We'll see 32 picks in Round 1 on April 23, but which prospects have actually earned a first-round grade? Right now, there are 11 in this 2026 class."
For the Pittsburgh Steelers, this comes at a pivotal time. With the draft set to occur in Pittsburgh this April, the team could enter the offseason focused on rebuilding if they falter in their January 5 game against the Baltimore Ravens. The Steelers hold multiple picks and need youth infusion, particularly at wide receiver, but top talents may be out of reach in the late teens or early 20s selection range.
At quarterback, Miller lists Indiana's Fernando Mendoza and Oregon's Dante Moore as first-round options. Mendoza is projected as an early pick, likely unavailable without a major trade, while Moore's limited starting experience might prompt a return to school. Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, despite a standout playoff performance including a comeback win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, did not make Miller's list. Nor did Alabama's Ty Simpson.
Chambliss's draft stock remains fluid due to his eligibility status. The former Ferris State standout, who transferred to Ole Miss after leading the Division II program to a 2024 national title, has applied for an NCAA medical waiver related to a 2022 injury. This stems from a redshirt year in 2021 and limited play in 2022. A decision is pending ahead of Ole Miss's Fiesta Bowl matchup against Miami on January 8. If denied, Chambliss would enter the 2026 draft, where his precise passing, defensive processing, and mobility—reminiscent of Bryce Young and Caleb Williams—could elevate him to the top quarterback tier.
Offensively, the class is thin with only one running back, one wide receiver (Ohio State's Carnell Tate), and one offensive lineman earning top grades. Defensively, front-seven players dominate, while the secondary features just one standout: Ohio State's Caleb Downs, a top safety prospect compared to Kyle Hamilton and projected no worse than a top-15 pick.
While Miller's grades represent one view, Steelers general manager Omar Khan has succeeded in past drafts, suggesting the team could still uncover value in this class.