In CBS Sports' latest 2026 NFL mock draft, analyst Ryan Wilson projects the Pittsburgh Steelers to pick Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor in the first round. This choice diverges from expectations of targeting a quarterback, amid the Steelers' offensive line uncertainties. Proctor, a massive 6-7, 369-pound lineman, brings athleticism and upside despite areas for improvement.
The 2026 NFL Draft, set to be held in Pittsburgh, has generated buzz as teams evaluate a quarterback class that has underperformed expectations. CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson, in his version 3.0 mock draft published on December 1, 2025, has the Steelers selecting Kadyn Proctor, an offensive tackle from Alabama, rather than addressing the quarterback position—a move many anticipated given the team's needs.
Wilson praises Proctor's physical tools, writing, “Proctor is a massive, athletic LT with impressive balance and the ability to move effectively in space, making him a first-round talent in both pass protection and perimeter run schemes.” He adds, “When locked in, he can dominate defensive linemen in the run game and neutralize elite edge rushers in pass protection. While his weight, footwork and consistency can be an issue at times, his size, athleticism, and upside make him a potential top-tier tackle when fully focused.”
Proctor stands at 6-7 and weighs 369 pounds, excelling in the run game by sealing off defenders with ease. His agility helps against quicker edge rushers, though his pass-protection technique requires refinement. This projection comes as the Steelers face decisions on their offensive line. Right tackle Troy Fautanu has been solid in his sophomore year, likely securing that spot. However, left tackle Broderick Jones' future is uncertain after a neck injury sidelined him for the season's remainder following an initial stinger against Chicago. The team must decide on Jones' fifth-year option this offseason, having evaluated his performance amid struggles and recent improvements against top edge rushers.
Wilson's mock reflects a broader draft landscape where the quarterback class lacks depth. Prospects like Garrett Nussmeier, Cade Klubnik, and Drew Allar, once seen as first-rounders, now project as Day 3 picks. The top eligible quarterbacks—Fernando Mendoza, Dante Moore, and Ty Simpson—may return to school. Despite three quarterbacks going in the first round of the mock, five of the top 10 picks are defensive players, highlighting teams' contingency plans like free agency or trades.
For the Steelers, currently 6-6 and ranked 20th in NFL power rankings after Week 13, an offensive tackle pick signals potential replacement of recent first-round investments like Jones and Fautanu, complicating their line strategy.