Pittsburgh targets a future at quarterback, wide receiver, and defensive back in a 2026 three‑round mock that also hints at an interior‑line upgrade. Garrett Nussmeier from LSU is slated at No. 27, with Texas A&M’s Kevin Concepcion, Duke’s Chandler Rivers, and Alabama’s Keon Sabb filling key roles later. The piece also notes the Steelers’ current safety trio—Juan Thornhill, DeShon Elliott, and Chuck Clark—while Isaac Seumalo looms as the potential point of upgrade on the interior line, setting up a blueprint built on upside, versatility, and immediate depth as free agency reshapes the roster.

From a fantasy lens, the mock leans into Pittsburgh’s short‑pass, YAC‑heavy identity. Nussmeier would be a long‑term add behind Kenny Pickett, Concepcion could inject quick‑hit targets, and Sabb/Rivers offer ceiling at coverage positions. The OL angle remains pivotal, with an interior blocker potentially changing line play and, in turn, offensive efficiency. Overall, the draft plan blends upside with roster stability as offseason moves unfold.

In sum, the simulated picks map a clear strategy: groom a QB of the future, add a reliable YAC threat, fortify the back end, and keep interior line options ready as free agency drives roster decisions and cap management.

Jabrill Peppers signed with the Steelers, adding veteran versatility to Pittsburgh’s secondary as DeShon Elliott nurses a sprained MCL. Elliott’s expected absence could push Peppers into a larger role early, with Sebastian Castro perhaps blocked on the practice squad. The move also spotlights Jalen Ramsey’s potential cross-training but acknowledges Pittsburgh’s cornerback depth is thin enough to complicate any immediate safety swap.

Bottom line: Peppers gives the Steelers a versatile man in the back end, increases safety depth behind Chuck Clark, and could shape how Pittsburgh aligns its DBs during Elliott’s absence and beyond the Week Four bye. Ramsey’s fits and the defense’s nickel plans will be watched closely as the year unfolds.

T.J. Watt and Jalen Ramsey anchored Pittsburgh’s Week 1 defense, delivering elite PFF marks as the unit navigated injuries and still beat the Jets. Watt led the way at 82.4, with Ramsey close behind at 79.4, pairing edge pressure with tight coverage to highlight the day’s brightest defensive performances.

The top-10 on defense also featured Daniel Ekuale, DeShon Elliott, Patrick Queen, Cameron Heyward, Brandin Echols, Malik Harrison, Chuck Clark, and Juan Thornhill, who all chipped in with crucial stops and fits. Week 2 vs. Seattle looms, making health the biggest variable for sustaining pressure and limiting big plays in a tighter matchup.

Fantasy takeaway: Watt remains a high-floor star; Thornhill and Ramsey offer steady safety floors; Echols and Clark could be viable DB plays if others deteriorate. Depth players will be tested as Pittsburgh leans on its stars to carry the unit through injuries.