The Pittsburgh Steelers partially addressed one of their biggest needs by trading for receiver Michael Pittman Jr. in March, but the team’s offensive line went largely unaddressed in free agency.
They can fix that in the NFL Draft.
The Steelers need a replacement for left guard Isaac Seumalo, who signed with the Cardinals. Plus, there is uncertainty about left tackle Broderick Jones’ neck injury, and his contract expires after next season.
For now, Spencer Anderson and newcomer Brock Hoffman are the top options at guard, with former undrafted free agent Dylan Cook available at tackle. Cook started the final five games last season after Jones’ injury and played solidly.
The Steelers can’t upgrade both spots in the first round, but they could potentially solidify one for years to come by adding Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane, the most NFL-ready guard in the draft.
Whether the Steelers have a 42-year-old quarterback or a second-year player behind center, a strong line will help. The 22-year-old Ioane could join center Zach Frazier, 24, guard Mason McCormick, 25, right tackle Troy Fautanu, 25, and potentially Jones, 24, on one of the NFL’s younger O-line units.
However, here’s the big question: Will Ioane be available at pick 21? Some analysts say yes, including Mel Kiper Jr., the dean of the draft gurus.
The Steelers could get aggressive and go get Ioane. Trading up won’t be free, but the Steelers have 12 picks to work with, including three third-rounders and two in the fourth.
Here is a look at how the Steelers’ 2026 draft might play out:
First round (No. 21)
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
The 6-foot-4, 320-pound redshirt junior started 32 games for the Nittany Lions and played the final 28 in a row without allowing a sack. But he is probably more impressive as a ground-clearing blocker in the run game. The biggest question, though, is whether the Steelers will have a chance to draft him before one of the 31 other NFL teams does.
Second round (No. 53)
Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
A sixth-year senior and team captain, Stukes had 52 tackles and four interceptions last season. The former walk-on was a third-team All-American. He ran a 4.33-second time in the 40 at the combine, and analysts say he plays fast. The Steelers signed free-agent safety Jaquan Brisker to a one-year contract but still need some secondary help.
Third round (No. 76)
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Branch was on the Steelers’ radar, having visited with him at the NFL combine. His quickness would complement Pittman and DK Metcalf. However, will misdemeanor charges last weekend, allegedly for obstructing a sidewalk, affect his draft stock?
Third round (No. 85)
Skyler Bell, WR, UConn
The Steelers go back-to-back on receivers in Round 3. Bell (6-foot, 192) was the second-leading FBS receiver with 1,278 yards last season.
Third round (No. 99)
Carson Beck, QB, Miami
The Steelers brought in four quarterbacks for top-30 visits, so it seems likely they’ll take one. Beck led the Hurricanes to the national championship game.
Fourth round (No. 121)
Travis Burke, OT, Memphis
Burke played at some smaller schools (Gardner-Webb and Florida International before Memphis) but he’s a big prospect at 6-8¾ and 325 pounds. One of two giant OTs to visit Steelers along with Miami’s Markel Bell (6-9, 346).
Fourth round (No. 135)
Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
Perkins (6-1, 223) had 220 tackles and 35½ tackles for loss in four seasons but was slowed in 2024 by an ACL injury.
Fifth round (No. 161)
Will Kacmarek, TE, Ohio State
Jonnu Smith and Connor Heyward are gone. Kacmarek is a 6-5, 261-pound run blocker who caught 15 passes.
Sixth round (No. 216)
Beau Stephens, G, Iowa
A first-team All-American last year who started the past two seasons at left guard.
Seventh round (No. 224)
Jaden Dugger, LB, Louisiana-Lafayette
The Penn Hills grad made 125 tackles as a first-team All-Sun Belt player.
Seventh round (No. 230)
James Thompson Jr., DT, Illinois
Thompson (6-5, 308), another sixth-year senior who made a top-30 visit, started 31 games.
Seventh round (No. 237)
Khalil Dinkins, TE, Penn State
The 6-4, 215-pounder from North Allegheny is the son of a former NFL tight end.