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Steelers GM Omar Khan gives glowing review of USC WR Makai Lemon
TL;DR
Steelers GM Omar Khan praised USC WR Makai Lemon during a pre-draft press conference, highlighting his potential as a first-round pick. With the Steelers needing both offensive tackle and wide receiver, Lemon could be a target at No. 21 or in a trade-up scenario.
Key points
- Omar Khan praised USC WR Makai Lemon.
- Lemon is expected to be a first-round pick.
- Steelers may target Lemon at No. 21 or trade up.
Mentioned in this story
Pittsburgh SteelersUSC Trojans
Makai Lemon
EUGENE, OREGON - NOVEMBER 22: Makai Lemon #6 of the USC Trojans warms up before the game against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium on November 22, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Ali Gradischer/Getty Images) | Getty Images
There are several directions in which the Pittsburgh Steelers can go when they are on the clock Thursday night in the first round of the NFL Draft. With Broderick Jones potentially not being ready for training camp due to a neck injury, offensive tackle is a bigger need than it would have been had that not been the case. Additionally, wide receiver remains a need, as well.
One of the top receivers in this class is USC’s Makai Lemon. He is largely expected to go in the first round, potentially in the top 15 depending on how the rest of the board falls. Should he be available at No. 21, or should the Steelers like him enough to trade up for him, he is certainly a name to keep an eye on for Pittsburgh.
In their pre-draft press conference on Monday, Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan were asked about having Lemon in the building for a visit, and Khan gave the exciting playmaker a glowing review.
“He was outstanding,” Khan said. “He really was. We had a chance to meet him in Indy and then he was here and [we] spent some quality time with him. It was excellent time spent.”
Lemon out up All-American numbers in 2025, catching 79 passes for 1,156 yards, and 11 touchdowns. Adding him into the mix with DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. would give Pittsburgh a terrific trio of pass-catchers for whomever the quarterback is to distribute the ball to.
Q&A
What did Steelers GM Omar Khan say about Makai Lemon?
Omar Khan gave a glowing review of USC WR Makai Lemon, emphasizing his exciting playmaking abilities.
Where is Makai Lemon expected to be drafted in the NFL Draft?
Makai Lemon is largely expected to be a first-round pick, potentially going in the top 15.
Why do the Pittsburgh Steelers need a wide receiver?
The Steelers need a wide receiver due to ongoing roster needs, especially with Broderick Jones' injury affecting their offensive line strategy.