AFC NorthPick: #21 Overall

Pittsburgh Steelers: 2026 NFL Draft Preview

How They Got Here

The Steelers went 10-7 in 2024 with Wilson and Fields splitting time, then lost to the Ravens in the wild card. The 2025 regression (9-8, missed playoffs) signaled the QB carousel must end. Fields showed flashes but couldn't sustain it. Tomlin needs a definitive answer.

Team Needs

QBOLWR

Pittsburgh picks at #21 after a 9-8 season that extended Mike Tomlin's non-losing streak to 19 years. But the Steelers' quarterback carousel continues — Russell Wilson signed with the Raiders, and Justin Fields remains inconsistent (18 TDs, 11 INTs, 84.7 rating). At 26, Fields gets one more year to prove he's the guy. Pittsburgh needs to either find his long-term replacement or give him better weapons.

Draft Outlook

QB is the priority if value falls. Nussmeier would compete with Fields immediately. But Proctor or Egbuka also make sense — protect the QB or arm him. Pittsburgh has historically developed mid-round quarterbacks (Roethlisberger notwithstanding) — Nussmeier fits that profile.

Top Prospect Fits

1. Garrett Nussmeier

QB — LSU

The Senior Bowl MVP with quick-rhythm passing. If Nussmeier falls to #24, Pittsburgh gets a potential starter who can compete with Fields immediately. His timing and anticipation fit Arthur Smith's offense, though arm strength is a concern for December games. Odds: +200 to go #24 (favorite).

2. Kadyn Proctor

OT — Alabama

A hulking tackle who would solidify Pittsburgh's line. At 6-6, 330 lbs, Proctor's size and athleticism fit what the Steelers need to protect whoever plays QB. If QBs are gone, this is the pick. Odds: +225 to go #24.

3. Emeka Egbuka

WR — Ohio State

A polished route-runner with excellent hands. At 6-1, 205 lbs, Egbuka gives Fields (or his replacement) a reliable target. George Pickens can't do it alone. Odds: +275 to go #24.

Draft Strategy

Tomlin's streak is in jeopardy if the QB situation isn't resolved. Fields gets 2026 to prove himself, but the Steelers need a contingency plan. If Nussmeier falls, they pounce. If not, protect the QB (Proctor) or give him weapons (Egbuka).

Betting Analysis

The #24 pick market is QB-heavy. Nussmeier leads at +200, Proctor at +225, Egbuka at +275. Pittsburgh is +150 to draft a quarterback in Round 1. Nussmeier at +200 offers value if he falls past #20 — LSU QBs have hit in the NFL. Proctor at +225 is the safe play if Pittsburgh sticks with Fields.