Steelers 2026 NFL Draft first round consensus grades

CBS Sports: B+

“This is definitely not a win-now move, but I like it. Iheanachor has the most intriguing developmental tools in the draft class, with truly everything you could want to play the tackle position in the NFL. And the kicker: he only started playing football five years ago. For the Steelers, they won’t necessarily need him to start Year 1 with Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu already set at tackle.” -Mike Renner

The Athletic: B-

“For the third time in four years, the Steelers have used a first-round pick on an offensive tackle. Is this an admission that they whiffed on Broderick Jones in 2023? You have to read it that way to some degree, although Jones’ neck injury was an unforeseen issue. Iheanachor has plenty of talent, but he’s really raw. He could be a real find here, if the Steelers are patient, although I’m not sure how much he helps right away.”

“Born in Nigeria, Iheanachor (6-6, 321) moved to the United States at age 13 and first started playing football after graduating from high school in 2021. He spent two seasons at East Los Angeles College before earning a scholarship to Arizona State, where he started 31 games as a right tackle. He was a second-team All-Big 12 offensive lineman last year.” -Nick Baumgardener and Scott Dochterman

USA Today: B

“Omar Khan didn’t have too many pressing concerns with his roster, but the outlook at offensive tackle was a little shaky amid Broderick Jones’ recovery from a neck injury. Enter Iheanachor, who’s short on refinement but long on athleticism as a latecomer to football. He provides flexibility in the short and long term, with Troy Fautanu potentially able to slide over to the left side and allow Iheanachor to step in at right tackle if required.” -Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz

Yahoo Sports: B+

“The Steelers had to bring in more offensive line help, and they took a huge swing on potential and talent here with the selection of Iheanachor. He just started playing football 4-5 years ago in junior college, so even though he’s an older player, he still has a ton of upside here and could be the final piece for the Steelers’ young, talented offensive line.” -Charles McDonald

Most of the media seems to agree that while this is a swing for the Steelers, it is one that could be looked back upon fondly by fans in a few years. While the story of the night became who the Steelers didn’t end up drafting, Iheanachor should bring Pittsburgh some value at a position of need and bring plenty of questions about the health and future of Broderick Jones.

Pittsburgh will have four picks during night two of the NFL Draft at 53rd , 76th, 85th , and 99th overall.

What grade would you give the Steelers first round selection Max Iheanachor? Join the BTSC community and let us know in the comments below!