The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2026 NFL Draft with their strongest draft capital position since 2000. Can Omar Khan take advantage of this opportunity?
In 2020, the Pittsburgh Steelers entered the NFL Draft with the league's lowest-ranked draft capital, and the results reflected it—they have just one player remaining from that class. Since taking over as general manager, however, Omar Khan has maximized the team's draft capital, producing far more hits than misses. He has now assembled the organization's strongest draft capital since 2000.
According to Sharp Analytics, the Steelers currently hold the seventh-strongest draft capital in the NFL, including an impressive seven picks within the first four rounds. Khan has consistently found success in this range, making impactful selections from Rounds 1 through 4.
The last time Pittsburgh approached this level of draft strength was in 2000, when it ranked sixth in capital, after ranking fifth the year prior. More recently, the team's strongest position came in 2023, when it held an extra second-round pick at No. 32 overall. This year's draft haul represents a significant advantage, giving Pittsburgh rare flexibility.
After trading for Michael Pittman Jr. , the roster has few glaring weaknesses beyond left tackle and guard. The outlook at left tackle depends on Broderick Jones ' health, though Dylan Cook performed admirably in his absence. The Steelers also signed Brock Hoffman as a potential option at left guard.
The biggest remaining question lies at quarterback. Will Aaron Rodgers return? Is Will Howard ready to take over as the starter? Or will the Steelers target a quarterback within the first three rounds?
Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan during the 2025 NFL Draft on April 26, 2025. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Defensively, Pittsburgh added stability to their secondary by signing two safeties and another cornerback. They also strengthened the interior defensive line with the addition of Sebastian Joseph-Day .
With this level of flexibility, the Steelers could approach the draft in several ways. The question now is whether Khan can follow in his predecessor's footsteps and build a Super Bowl contender in just a few short years.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Steelers Draft Strength Hits Mark Not Seen in Over 25 Years
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