Story perspectives

Steelers Draft Max Iheanachor, Eye Early Starting Role

4/29/2026

Summary

Khan Drafts Linemen

GM Omar Khan selected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Steelers also drafted guard Gennings Dunker, quarterback Drew Allar, returner Kaden Wetjen and wideout Germie Bernard.
Broderick Jones’s neck injury may push Iheanachor onto the field.
Owner Art Rooney II praised the draft for strengthening the offensive line, while analysts expect Iheanachor to start under five games and Bernard to catch under 40 passes.

Summary

Steelers Skip Draft

Keeanu Benton (last-year contract) and Malik Harrison (run-defending linebacker) stay winners after Pittsburgh skipped drafting defensive linemen or linebackers while Patrick Queen benefits as trade rumors faded.
Cole Holcomb likely becomes backup and special-teams contributor because the Steelers added no high-upside prospect.
Christian Kuntz and Cam Johnston stay secure while Daylen Everette’s selection threatens Cory Trice Jr., Donte Kent, Asante Samuel Jr., and Brandin Echols, making the latter two losers.

History

Historical Context

The Steelers’ dynasty began with interior-line anchor “Mean Joe” Greene, whose 1976 defense posted a league-best 9.9 points allowed per game and five shutouts, a model later echoed when rookie Ben Roethlisberger led a 15-1 season in 2004. In 2026 GM Omar Khan’s selection of tackle Max Iheanachor and guard Gennings Dunker revives that interior-line emphasis.

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Khan Drafts Linemen

GM Omar Khan selected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Steelers also drafted guard Gennings Dunker, quarterback Drew Allar, returner Kaden Wetjen and wideout Germie Bernard.
Broderick Jones’s neck injury may push Iheanachor onto the field.
Owner Art Rooney II praised the draft for strengthening the offensive line, while analysts expect Iheanachor to start under five games and Bernard to catch under 40 passes.

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