The Pittsburgh Steelers are still waiting for some sort of decision on the future of Aaron Rodgers, and it's kind of embarrassing for the franchise that this team is likely wanting Rodgers to return for another season. Until the Steelers find some long-term stability at the position, they'll continue to be in this 'middle of the road' tier.
And while Rodgers returning might not be the worst idea ever, as it gives the Steelers another year to figure out the quarterback situation, the Steelers simply need to bring in a rookie prospect at the position. There are also other positions on the roster that need a boost, too.
Fortunately, Pittsburgh has a load of NFL Draft picks this year and could do well for itself with this mock draft haul.
Pittsburgh Steelers updated NFL Mock Draft as free agency slows down
21. Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Ty Simpson does appear to have some first-round qualities, but he's not the best prospect this year, despite what others in the media have said. The size is a bit of a concern, but he has made some big-time throws and can process well.
Simpson would absolutlely be someone who probably should not start immediately and might not even be able to win a starting job in his rookie season, but at least the Steelers took this swing in our latest mock.
53. Chase Bisontis, OG, Texas A&M
Chase Bisontis is a future starter at guard and someone who could be yet another young player the Steelers add to the offensive line. Spencer Anderson and Mason McCormick are slated to start at guard in 2026, but Bisontis could compete for one of those jobs.
76. Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn State
The Steelers have made some big-time moves in the secondary this offseason in signing Jamel Dean and Jaquan Brisker, but it's always good to continue adding and to continue planning for the future. Pittsburgh selects Zakee Wheatley to add another body to the backend of the defense.
99. Skyler Bell, WR, UConn
Skyler Bell is a different type of receiver than what the Steelers currently have at the top of the depth chart in DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. Bell is fast and does have starting upside. He'll be 24 as a rookie, which is older, but in many instances, experience bodes well for young players.
121. Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest
Demond Claiborne could join Rico Dowdle as new additions in the Steelers backfield. Dowdle has rushed for over 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers. He's a capable RB1 but won't take the entire workload, so the position is still a need.
135. Jude Bowry, OT, Boston College
Jude Bowry has played both left and right tackle in college and could be someone the Steelers have future plans for. Broderick Jones hasn't been holding up that well as a bookend along the Steelers offensive line, so Bowry might be able to slide into his spot at some point.
161. Rayshaun Benny, DT, Michigan
Now addressing the defensive line, a unit that is on the older side, the Steelers take Rayshaun Benny. He's 6-4, 305 pounds and can clog some holes in the middle of the defense.
216. TJ Hall, CB, Iowa
TJ Hall had 10 passes defended in 2025 for the Iowa Hawkeyes and might have to produce on special teams first, but there is some depth potential here.
224. Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
Especially if Rodgers does not return in 2026, the Steelers should look to draft two quarterbacks. Teams that don't have a long-term solution at the position should take multiple swings in the NFL Draft each season. While there is a low chance Cade Klubnik works out, the Steelers won't ever get the chance to find out if they don't try.
230. Kendal Daniels, LB, Oklahoma
Now addressing the linebacker group, Pittsburgh takes Kendal Daniels from Oklahoma. He's a former safety who made the switch to linebacker and is competent in coverage.
237. Anez Cooper, OG, Miami (FL)
Some more offensive line help to finish out this mock draft, as the Steelers take Anez Cooper from Miami (FL). At 6-6 and 334 pounds, he's got ideal size for the position and could have starting upside on the right team.