The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 draft class is garnering mixed reviews, particularly regarding their selections in the offensive line. The team prioritized building the trenches under GM Omar Khan by drafting two offensive linemen: Max Iheanachor in the first round and Gennings Dunker in the third. Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger expressed his excitement about Dunker on his podcast, praising his physical play style and potential to protect the quarterback. Roethlisberger sees Dunker as a quintessential Steeler, embodying toughness and a fighting spirit reminiscent of his own veteran linemen. The Steelers appear poised to establish a strong offensive line to support their future quarterback.

By the Numbers
  • The Steelers made 10 selections in the 2026 draft.
  • They drafted two offensive linemen within the first five picks.
State of Play
  • The Steelers are actively seeking a franchise quarterback.
  • Pittsburgh has focused on enhancing their offensive line through recent drafts.
What's Next

Dunker is expected to make an immediate impact on the team's offensive line and could emerge as a fan favorite. As the Steelers continue to build around their offensive line, future drafts and training camps will reveal how effectively Dunker adapts to the NFL environment and contributes to the team's success.

Bottom Line

The Steelers are committing to a physical, hard-nosed style of play, and the selection of Dunker, endorsed by Roethlisberger, signals their focus on creating a protective environment for their future quarterback. This could lay the foundation for a resilient offensive line that embodies the team's traditional values.