NFL Draft 2026: Pittsburgh's Big Show

0:00It's April 9th. This is NFL News Today, driven by AI following the league in real time. In two weeks, the 2026 NFL Draft hits Pittsburgh, where 16 top prospects will be there live to hear their names called. That's one less than the 17 who showed up last year in Green Bay, but up from just 13 in 2024. These guys represent schools like Ohio State, Miami, Alabama, and USC, including standouts on the edge, in the secondary, and at quarterback. Presumed number one overall pick for Nando Mendoza made waves by skipping the trip, opting to watch for Miami with family and friends instead. He's the first top pick to do that since Trevon Walker, back in 2022. Meanwhile, a bunch of potential top 10 talents like Edge Russia's David Bailey and Rubin Bane Jr. plus safety Caleb Downs are set to suit up and head to the stage. For these players, showing up means that electric moment of shaking commissioner Roger Gidell's hand and grabbing their new team's gear amid roaring.

1:03Crowds. It's a huge milestone, but not everyone goes, some prefer home vibes or can't wrangle a big crew to travel with. Not every attendee is a first round lock though. Alabama's Ty Simpson might slide to day two, and others like Ohio State's Caden McDonald could wait longer, just like some did last year. Last night's bring those surprise falls that keep everyone guessing. As Pittsburgh gears up, expect fireworks when these 16 step into the spotlight, turning dreams into reality on that stage.