What Steelers fans can expect from draft pick Gennings Dunker, an insider perspective

Iowa offensive lineman Gennings Dunker was selected in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2026 NFL Draft. He was the 96th overall pick.

Dunker was a part of a unit that won the 2025 Joe Moore Award, which recognizes the most outstanding offensive line in college football. Hel was named first-team All-Big Ten by media last season.

We asked Hawk Central football writers Chad Leistikow and Tyler Tachman for some quick analysis on Dunker. Here's what they said.

What kind of player was Gennings Dunker at Iowa?

Chad Leistikow: Behind the Paul Bunyan looks and quirky personality uncovered in the pre-draft process is one mentally tough dude. Dunker battled through multiple injuries in the 2025 season (shoulder, MCL tear) that probably should’ve had him on the sidelines. As a three-year starter for Iowa, he was a mauling run blocker from the get-go and progressed a lot in the pass game. He’ll likely be a guard at the next level but is more than capable of kicking out to tackle. And he’ll be a model teammate and very coachable commodity for years to come.

Tyler Tachman: Dunker started nearly 40 games in his Hawkeye career, primarily at right tackle. He was a part of a unit that won the 2025 Joe Moore Award, which recognizes the most outstanding offensive line in college football. Dunker was also named first team All-Big Ten by the media last season. He has become somewhat of an internet sensation, especially during the pre-Draft process, as the NFL world has discovered his rugged look and eccentric personality.