Building on an active free agency and trade for Michael Pittman Jr., the Pittsburgh Steelers added a 10-player 2026 draft class to bolster their roster under new coach Mike McCarthy. Beat writer Mike DeFabo assesses the team as stronger overall, though uncertainties linger at offensive line, defense, and quarterback.
The Steelers' 2026 offseason, chronicled in prior coverage of free agency moves and analyst reactions, continued with a strong 10-player NFL Draft under GM Omar Khan. The Athletic's Mike DeFabo, in a Monday post-draft analysis, wrote: “After an aggressive push to sign starters to fill holes, a trade for Michael Pittman Jr. and a draft in which several immediate needs were addressed, the roster looks stronger than the one McCarthy took over.” Key draft additions targeted roster gaps: first-round OT Max Iheanachor, third-round G Gennings Dunker, and others complementing free-agent IOL Brock Hoffman. The class addressed offensive line and other needs exposed last season. DeFabo highlights three ceiling factors: the young OL's cohesion (with Iheanachor/Hoffman/Dunker), new DC Patrick Graham's scheme impact on veterans, and 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers' potential performance in McCarthy's familiar offense—if he signs. Rodgers was adequate in 2025 but must elevate for contention. Players praise Graham's play-calling from his track record. Coming off an AFC North title and playoff appearance, Pittsburgh enters 2026 with cap flexibility and momentum.
