Steelers NFL Draft winners and losers include Aaron Rodgers, Drew Allar

Key Points:

• The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 draft class has sparked significant debate, with opinions ranging from it being excellent to disappointing, but consensus exists on the team adding depth to offensive and defensive lines, acquiring a needed receiver, and adding a quarterback project.
• General Manager Omar Khan was praised for trading up to select versatile wide receiver Germie Bernard, seen as a safer and better fit for the offense, especially after missing out on receiver Makai Lemon due to a trade between other teams.
• The draft raises questions about the futures of existing players like receiver Roman Wilson, who must improve to secure a roster spot, and quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, as the Steelers invested in rookie Drew Allar, signaling potential shifts in the quarterback hierarchy.
• Inside linebacker Patrick Queen appears to be staying with the team after no linebacker was drafted, placing pressure on him to perform well in his contract year, while offensive tackle Broderick Jones faces uncertainty due to injury and competition from new draftee Max Iheanachor.
• Seventh-round pick Eli Heidenreich, a versatile Pittsburgh native, emerged as a draft winner, celebrated for his emotional selection and potential impact given his strong college performance as both a rusher and receiver.