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Steelers NFL Draft rumors start to swirl following head coach Mike McCarthy’s comments
TL;DR
Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach Mike McCarthy's recent comments about wide receivers have sparked speculation ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. He emphasized the importance of versatility in receivers, particularly regarding slot positions.
Key points
- Mike McCarthy's comments focus on receiver versatility.
- He prefers players who can win outside the numbers.
- The Steelers may adjust their draft strategy based on these insights.
Mentioned in this story
Mike McCarthyOmar Khan
Pittsburgh SteelersNFL Draft
With the 2026 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers may have just tipped their hand, at least a little. During Monday’s pre-draft press conference, head coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Omar Khan spoke about their evaluation process. But it was McCarthy’s comments about wide receivers, specifically slot receivers, that immediately got people talking.
MORE: 2026 NFL Draft biggest needs for every AFC team
McCarthy’s Comments Raise Eyebrows
McCarthy didn’t hold back when describing what he values in a receiver. He emphasized versatility over specialization, noting that he prefers players who can win both inside and outside rather than traditional slot-only options.
“I always look for a guy who can win outside the numbers,” McCarthy said. “I just never ever viewed having a smaller receiver to run slot plays… when you can move players around, you can challenge a defense and create more matchups.”
That’s not just philosophy—that’s a clue.
A Clear Draft Profile Emerges
When coaches get this specific publicly, it usually means something. The Steelers aren’t just looking for a receiver; they’re looking for a movable chess piece. Someone who can line up anywhere, run a full route tree, and create mismatches across the formation. That narrows the field quickly.
One name that immediately stands out is Omar Cooper Jr. At 6’0”, 204 pounds, Cooper brings the exact build McCarthy described. More importantly, his usage profile at Indiana Hoosiers football shows true versatility, lining up almost evenly between the outside (51.2%) and the slot (48.2%). He’s polished on out-breaking routes, physical after the catch, and capable of turning short gains into explosive plays.
In other words, he checks every box. And with the Steelers holding pick No. 21, he could very realistically be on the board.
Another Name to Watch: KC Concepcion
Q&A
What did Mike McCarthy say about wide receivers ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft?
Mike McCarthy emphasized the need for versatility in wide receivers, stating he prefers players who can perform both inside and outside rather than just traditional slot receivers.
How might the Steelers' draft strategy change based on McCarthy's comments?
McCarthy's focus on versatile receivers could indicate that the Steelers may prioritize drafting players who can adapt to multiple roles rather than sticking to conventional slot receivers.
Who is Omar Khan and what role does he play in the Steelers' draft process?
Omar Khan is the general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and he collaborates with McCarthy in evaluating player needs and strategies for the upcoming NFL Draft.
