Steelers Land Superstar Playmaker In ESPN’s 2026 Mock Draft

One of the most pressing questions facing the Pittsburgh Steelers this season is what exactly is happening with their No. 2 receiver position.

Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson have yet to step up as the Steelers’ No. 2 option, and that is a spot Pittsburgh could look to add during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

ESPN’s Matt Miller published a mock draft on Wednesday and has the Steelers drafting Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate at pick No. 19.

“The Steelers could flip a coin to decide whether to draft a quarterback or wide receiver, as both are of equal need,” Miller wrote. “Quarterback would be the ideal pick, but the Steelers wouldn’t be in range for a starting-caliber prospect here and would likely add a veteran in free agency if Aaron Rodgers retires or doesn’t return.

“That leaves wide receiver, a position the Steelers have historically drafted very well. Trading for DK Metcalf gave Pittsburgh a true WR1, but the team now needs a WR2. At 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds, Tate has the vertical ability to win over the top and make plays on 50-50 passes. More importantly, he has succeeded in the No. 2 role next to superstar sophomore Jeremiah Smith. Tate has seven touchdowns on 39 receptions this season.”

Tate has been one of the top receivers in college football this season, recording nine receptions for 711 yards and seven touchdowns over eight games. However, an apparent injury sidelined Tate for the last two games, which is something worth monitoring as the season progresses.

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