Full Breakdown
Steelers' Drew Allar Pick Highlights Winners and Losers of Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft
4/26/2026, 11:47:18 AM
Day 2 Overview: Key Selections and Immediate Reactions
On April 25, 2026, the NFL’s second-day draft saw numerous selections across rounds 2-3. Notable moves included the Pittsburgh Steelers taking former Penn State quarterback Drew Allar in the third round, the Atlanta Falcons selecting cornerback Avieon Terrell at No. 48, and the Houston Texans adding defensive tackle Kayden McDonald.
Winners and Losers of Day 2
Winners of Day 2 included Cleveland Browns, who added wide receiver Denzel Boston and safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, and Atlanta Falcons, who paired Avieon Terrell with brother A.J. Terrell. Houston Texans drafted Kayden McDonald for depth. Losers featured Steelers’ third-round gamble on Allar, whose issues were noted, Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy, whose stock fell after a bone-plug knee surgery, and Arizona Cardinals’ Carson Beck, viewed as a low-upside backup.
Teams’ Pre-Draft Needs
Teams entered Day 2 with needs. Pittsburgh sought a “statuesque” quarterback, GM Omar Khan said. Cleveland aimed to add receiver and safety depth after a strong first round. Atlanta prioritized secondary continuity with a familiar Clemson cornerback. Houston targeted interior line reinforcement after a long wait for McDonald. Arizona, under GM Monti Ossenfort, pursued a backup quarterback to hedge injuries.
Official Statements & Analyst Criticism
Omar Khan said the Steelers “wanted what people envision from an AFC North quarterback: a statuesque figure with a strong arm.” Analysts argued that Allar, while physically prototypical, lacks the execution to meet quarterback standards, noting sloppy footwork, erratic ball placement, and a hesitant approach. McCoy’s bone-plug surgery and Beck’s limited pressure handling were cited as red flags.
Draft Data Highlights
Day 2 saw eight tight ends selected, underscoring the league’s “tight-end craze.” Only one cornerback—Kaelon Black at No. 90—was taken in rounds 2-3, highlighting a scarcity of mid-round defensive backs. Allar was taken in the third round, reflecting the Steelers’ focus on physical traits. Avieon Terrell went No. 48, and McDonald’s pick ended a prolonged green-room wait.
Impact on Team Rosters
The Browns’ added depth at receiver and safety gives them flexibility in offensive schemes and defensive matchups. Atlanta’s sibling cornerbacks could improve communication and coverage. Houston’s interior line upgrade strengthens a defense already anchored by elite edge rushers. Pittsburgh may need another quarterback if Allar’s development stalls, while Arizona’s reliance on Beck as a backup limits depth. Jermod McCoy’s health uncertainty could affect Tennessee’s secondary planning.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Falcons select Avieon Terrell at No.” — ESPN
- “Allar, however, can't be trusted to step in for Aaron Rodgers anytime soon, regardless of whether the four-time NFL MVP re-signs with the team.” — USAToday
- “He resembles an ideal at quarterback but doesn't come close to actually embodying one.” — USAToday
- “With their focus on physical traits, the Steelers might be adopting an "I can fix him" mentality here.” — USAToday
What’s Next
Allar is expected to remain a Day 3 prospect, viewed as a developmental gamble. Pittsburgh may add a veteran quarterback to complement Allar if his progress stalls. Tennessee will monitor McCoy’s recovery before finalizing its secondary roster.
