Steelers' 2026 Draft Picks: Projecting Rookie Playing Time

PISCATAWAY, NJ - SEPTEMBER 19: Gennings Dunker #67 of the Iowa Hawkeyes during the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on September 19, 2025, at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers made an impressive ten selections during the 2026 NFL Draft, yet there remains a possibility that none of these newcomers will start on either offense or defense when the season opens. This makes it particularly challenging to forecast which rookies will see substantial playing time. Let's explore the top candidates for significant contributions in 2026.

1. OG Gennings Dunker stands out among the draft class as a likely candidate for early playing time. Although second-round wide receiver Germie Bernard may be first to see action on offense, Dunker has a solid chance of establishing himself as a full-time starter at right guard. Transitioning from his college position as a right tackle, Dunker has experience playing guard and comes from Iowa, known for producing top-tier offensive linemen. Once he secures a starting role, expect his snap count to rise quickly.

2. WR Germie Bernard is positioned behind established receivers DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., which could limit his starting opportunities in 2026. However, reports from the Steelers' OTAs suggest that Bernard is ready for the NFL and is likely to slot in as the team's primary WR3. With new head coach Mike McCarthy potentially favoring 11 personnel, Bernard's versatile skill set should allow him to make an early impact on the field.

3. OT Max Iheanachor, the Steelers' first-round pick, has an uncertain path ahead. Initially earmarked as the future right tackle, his inexperience may lead the coaching staff to take a cautious approach with his development. The current starter, Dylan Cook, performed well in 2025, and with Broderick Jones also in the mix, it’s likely that Iheanachor will not be rushed into the lineup.

4. FB/TE Riley Nowakowski, a fifth-round selection, may seem like an unconventional choice for a high ranking, but history suggests that fullbacks can play significant roles in an offense. Under Mike McCarthy, previous fullback Hunter Luepke played a notable share of snaps, and Nowakowski's flexibility to also play tight end could increase his chances of contributing in various capacities.

5. WR/KR Kaden Wetjen is expected to make an immediate impact on special teams, with a strong likelihood of securing at least one returner position. His abilities could earn him offensive snaps as well, and if he demonstrates sufficient skill, more playing time may follow.

6. CB Daylen Everette, selected in the third round, is projected to focus primarily on special teams initially but has the potential to develop into a starting role. With a crowded defensive backfield featuring established players, his opportunities for defensive snaps will likely be limited at first.

7. S Robert Spears-Jennings, another seventh-round pick, faces tough competition but has a decent chance of making the roster due to the lack of depth in the safety position. His athletic profile suggests he could also contribute on special teams, though defensive playing time may be scarce.

8. DE Gabriel Rubio will need to overcome significant competition to secure a spot on the Steelers' roster. With strong contenders already in place along the defensive line, his run-stuffing skills could prove valuable, but making the final cut will be a challenge.

This year's draft class presents a mix of opportunities and challenges for the Steelers, and it will be fascinating to see how these rookies develop as they prepare for the upcoming season.