Steelers' Draft Mistake: Upside Over Impact

0:00On May 1st, Pittsburgh Steelers dropped the ball big time in the 2026 NFL draft, snagging offensive tackle Ihanakor at pick number. 21. Scouts call him raw with solid traits but needing a full red shirt year to polish up his hands and consistency. In a shallow draft, that first round choice screams mistake when ready-now talent slipped right by. Earlier this week, the Steelers watch slot receiver Kasey Konsepsi-Ong go number 24 to the rival Browns, just three picks later. Guys like him and another hot name, Lemon, bring instant burst, separation and ball skills without the growing pains. Both around 5'11, they're built for the slot and could separate man coverage like pros. Fans and analysts are roasting the pick, saying it ignores the Steelers knee for weapons around DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. on the outside. In an era of paid college stars entering polished, why bet on a project tackle when your young QB needs help now?

1:00That divisional foe just got a nightmare match up twice a year. Meanwhile, their second round grab, wide receiver Jeremy Bernard, projects as just an average starter down the line with ordinary speed and contested catches. Tie that to recent flops against the Eagles and no sure resign for Aaron Rodgers, and this draft could end Pittsburgh's 22 year. No losing season streak. Bottom line, the Steelers gambled on upside over impact, hoping Ihanakor blocks his way to the lineup while the offense starbs. We'll see if it pays off or haunts them come playoffs.