Steel City Pulse

April 20, 2026 • Issue #42

DRAFT WEEK IS HERE

The Steelers are on the clock Thursday night

Hey Steelers Nation,

This is the week we've been waiting for. The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday, April 23rd and the Steelers front office has been working the phones. Here's everything you need to know heading into draft week.

DRAFT PREVIEW: WHAT TO EXPECT

With the Steelers picking in the first round, the front office has several directions they could go. Here are the positions most analysts expect Pittsburgh to target:

1. Offensive Line — Protecting the QB remains priority number one. Several blue-chip tackles could be available.
2. Cornerback — The secondary needs an injection of youth and speed to compete in an increasingly pass-heavy AFC North.
3. Wide Receiver — A dynamic playmaker to pair with George Pickens could elevate the entire offense.
4. Inside Linebacker — The Steelers love drafting linebackers, and this class has some talented options in the middle rounds.

Keep an eye on potential trade-up scenarios. Omar Khan has shown willingness to be aggressive when the right player is there.

OFFSEASON MOVES RECAP

Before we get to the draft, let's take stock of where the roster stands after free agency:

Key Signings: The front office addressed several needs through free agency, bringing in veteran contributors on team-friendly deals. The salary cap flexibility heading into 2026 gave Pittsburgh room to make targeted additions.

Cap Situation: The Steelers still have draft pick salary cap space accounted for, with additional room to make a mid-season move if needed. Smart cap management continues to be a hallmark of this front office.

OTAs Start Soon: Organized team activities begin in May. This will be our first look at the new additions on the field with the returning core.

QUICK HITS

▶ The 2026 regular season schedule is expected to be released in the coming weeks. Steelers Nation, start planning those road trips.
▶ T.J. Watt continues offseason training. Recent social media posts show him looking as explosive as ever heading into his 10th NFL season.
▶ Acrisure Stadium upgrades are underway ahead of the 2026 season. New video boards and improved concourse areas are part of the renovation.
▶ The Steelers' 2026 opponents include matchups against the NFC South and AFC West. Plenty of marquee games on the horizon.

DRAFT DAY ESSENTIALS

Gear up for Thursday night

Steelers Tumbler

Steelers Tumbler

20oz stainless steel tumbler. Keep your draft night beverages cold for hours.

Shop Now 		Steelers BBQ Set

Steelers BBQ Set

Premium 3-piece stainless steel set. Fire up the grill for your draft party.

Shop Now 		Steelers Playing Cards

Steelers Playing Cards

Keep busy between picks with these official NFL Steelers playing cards.

Shop Now

DRAFT NIGHT WATCH PARTY

Thursday, April 23rd • Coverage starts at 8:00 PM ET

We'll have live pick-by-pick analysis in your inbox Friday morning.

VISIT STEEL CITY PULSE

You're receiving this email because you subscribed to Steel City Pulse

© 2026 Steel City Pulse. All rights reserved.

Unsubscribe | Update Preferences | View Online