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Steelers' Pre-Draft Call to Makai Lemon Sparks NFL Probe

4/25/2026

44 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Pittsburgh Steelers called USC receiver Makai Lemon on Thursday before their draft slot, possibly breaching NFL rules.
Eagles executive Jake Rosenberg said clubs not on the clock may discuss non-financial matters with players, a rule that a source said applied to the Steelers’ call.
NFL Network aired video of Lemon speaking with the Steelers, prompting league scrutiny even though the Eagles signed Lemon and the first round lasted eight minutes.

History

Historical Context

After the 2007 Spygate scandal—where Commissioner Roger Goodell fined the New England Patriots $250,000 and stripped their 2008 first-round pick—the league tightened draft-contact rules. In 2012 Goodell again penalized the Patriots $250,000 for contacting wide receiver Mike Williams before the draft clock, and the Pittsburgh Steelers faced similar scrutiny for a pre-slot call to USC’s Makai Lemon, prompting calls for stricter monitoring.

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Story summary

Pittsburgh Steelers called USC receiver Makai Lemon on Thursday before their draft slot, possibly breaching NFL rules.
Eagles executive Jake Rosenberg said clubs not on the clock may discuss non-financial matters with players, a rule that a source said applied to the Steelers’ call.
NFL Network aired video of Lemon speaking with the Steelers, prompting league scrutiny even though the Eagles signed Lemon and the first round lasted eight minutes.

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