Full Breakdown
Steelers Turn Day 2 Into a Draft Day of Opportunity
4/25/2026, 9:49:20 PM
Day 2 Selections and Trade Details
Pittsburgh entered Day 2 with four picks and a trade that moved them from No. 53 to No. 47. The Steelers sent the 53rd overall, a fourth-rounder (135) and a seventh-rounder (237) to Indianapolis for the 47th slot and a later seventh (249). The deal secured Alabama WR Germie Bernard at No. 47. The third round added Penn State QB Drew Allar (No. 76), Georgia CB Daylen Everette (No. 85) and Iowa G Gennings Dunker (No. 96). Pittsburgh’s Day 2 picks have produced Hall of Famers such as Mel Blount and Jack Ham, underscoring value of middle rounds.
Player Profiles and Key Statistics
Bernard led Alabama in receiving for two seasons, forced missed tackles on 26.6 % of receptions and had five drops in 232 career targets (one drop in 102 in 2025). Allar started 35 games at Penn State, stands 6-foot-5, 228 lb, and has an “effortless arm” with NFL-caliber strength. Everette runs a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, can play outside and slot, and is praised for his build and seriousness. Dunker logged 38 starts at Iowa, displayed aggressive play at the Senior Bowl, projected to start at guard opposite Mason McCormick.
Official Statements & Responses
Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio said Bernard’s passion, faith and commitment convinced him to act. Quarterbacks coach Tom Arth called Allar’s arm “effortless” and highlighted his clutch play. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham noted Everette’s size and demeanor fit the Steelers’ defensive mold. Offensive line coach James Campen praised Dunker’s aggression, focus and ability to pull at guard.
Fan Criticism & Opposition
A vocal segment of fans expressed disappointment after the Steelers passed on wide receiver Makai Lemon, intensifying calls for a clear WR weapon to complement DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.
Impact and Outlook
The four selections add depth at receiver, a developmental quarterback, secondary reinforcement and a guard to replace Isaac Seumalo’s vacancy, and with three quarterbacks on the active roster, training camp may feature notable competition. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper named the Steelers among his biggest Day 2 winners, noting the four picks address multiple roster needs. The class will be judged over the next three to five years.
What’s Next: Day 3 Picks
Pittsburgh will make five Day 3 selections—one each in the fourth and fifth rounds and three in the seventh—potentially expanding the 2026 class to nine players, the most since the ten-player haul in 2010.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Just his passion, his faith, his commitment, those really stood out to me,” — Brian Angelichio, Offensive Coordinator
- “He has an effortless arm,” — Tom Arth, Quarterbacks Coach
- “The size. When you meet (Everette), he's well put together in terms of build,” — Patrick Graham, Defensive Coordinator
