With the NFL Draft just two weeks away, everyone and their mother is putting out (too many) mock drafts. Fear not – we are almost done hearing those two words for the better part of nine months. Except, of course, those who put out a “Way too early 2027 mock’ the second after Night One concludes because nothing in our world is sacred.
Since every mock draft is practically the same, I decided to put a twist on this one and take a look at what the worst possible outcome would be for the Steelers in the first three rounds. Enjoy.
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Round 1, Pick 21: EDGE T.J. Parker, Clemson
Not to throw any sort of shade at Peter Schrager, but he had the Steelers selecting Parker in his mock draft, and, frankly, that would be the worst possible outcome. The Steelers already have four quality edge rushers. That position is last on their list of needs. Taking one in the first round, or first three rounds, for that matter, would make zero sense.
Round 2, Pick 53: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern
I can hear the arguments about Pittsburgh taking a tackle early on. Broderick Jones is coming off a neck injury, and general manager Omar Khan wasn’t exactly committal about him being ready for training camp. Additionally, the Steelers are almost certainly not picking up his fifth-year option. That said, picking Tiernan in this spot instead of a wide receiver or safety would be a bad choice.
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Round 3, Pick 76: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Nussmeier had a bad year in 2025, throwing just 12 touchdowns in nine starts before being benched against Alabama. However, it wouldn’t surprise me to hear his name called by the Steelers, considering that his father, Doug, worked under McCarthy as the Cowboys’ quarterbacks coach from 2020-22. The Steelers should draft a quarterback, but not this one.
Round 3, Pick 85: TE Max Klare, Ohio State
With Jonnu Smith being released and Connor Heyward not being re-signed, the Steelers have two tight ends on their roster. Sure, they should draft one… in the sixth or seventh round. Not on Day Two.
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Round 3, Pick 99: WR Kevin Coleman, Missouri
If the Steelers waited this long to take a receiver, it would be a disaster. Coleman isn’t very fast (4.49 40-time) and isn’t a physical guy who profiles as a potential No. 1 target in an offense.
Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!