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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy has continued to reshape his coaching staff since taking over.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to build off a 10-win season despite parting ways with former head coach Mike Tomlin this offseason. With a potential need at offensive line, new head coach Mike McCarthy and the front office could look to go with a big man in the first round at pick No. 21 overall.
According to the Bleacher Report scouting department, Pittsburgh is projected to draft Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor with its first overall pick. The All-American can bring stability and consistency to McCarthy’s new offense in 2026.
The Pittsburgh Steelers Need Kadyn Proctor
GettyKadyn Proctor was named an All-SEC performer in both 2024 and 2025.
If the Steelers were to select Proctor at pick No. 21, it would be one of the true steals of the draft. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing over 350 pounds, Proctor could not only compete with fellow tackle Broderick Jones in training camp but potentially beat him out for the job. The Iowa native also has demonstrated the ability to start at both tackle positions, even though he is primarily a left tackle.
Should future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers decide to return for his 22nd NFL season, he will turn 43 years of age in December. His ability to move in and out of the pocket, while still evident, has diminished. That is a common thread among all aging quarterbacks. Bringing in a steady protector, such as Proctor, could give the four-time MVP time to throw the football down the field.
The Steelers Have Plenty of Draft Picks Upcoming
GettyThe NFL Draft is being hosted by the city of Pittsburgh in April.
As the NFL Draft is on the horizon, the Steelers are preparing their draft board. Not only do they have a first-round pick like almost every other team, but they hold six more picks within the first four rounds. In other words, they have plenty of ammunition to build up a roster that is already prepared to win right now.
That is thanks in large part to veteran players already under contract and veteran players who were acquired in free agency. Steelers GM Omar Khan was very active during the early free agency window. He traded for two-time 1,000-yard wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and signed back-to-back 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle. Defensively, former Super Bowl champion cornerback Jamel Dean, defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day, and safety Jaquan Brisker have all been brought to the Steel City on new contracts.
With this team, especially on offense, starting to take shape, its draft ammunition should excite Steelers fans. After bringing an AFC North title back to Pittsburgh for the first time in five years, this organization is not interested in rebuilding. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have traded for Pittman and made all of these significant moves during free agency.
Aside from a strong draft, all this team may need is an Aaron Rodgers return. After showing last season that he clearly has some juice left in the tank, he can still lead this team on a potential deep playoff run this next season.
Tim Lindsey A Chicago-area native, Tim Lindsey has covered the world of sports through a variety of different lenses. More specifically, he has been an NFL writer for sites such as Sports Illustrated and PFSN. Notable teams like the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been a major point of emphasis for the longtime writer in the past. More about Tim Lindsey
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