Steelers projected to take star Big Ten receiver in latest mock draft
The Steelers could take a wide receiver in round one.
PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 01: WR Omar Cooper Jr. #3 of the Indiana Hoosiers looks up field after a catch during the Alabama Crimson Tide versus Indiana Hoosiers College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game on January 1, 2026, at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images The wide receiver position has been one of controversy for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the last number of years.
Since 2024, the Steelers have made a notable trade at the position every year. In March of 2024, they traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, but never replenished the hole he left behind. They did the same in 2025 when they traded George Pickens in May after acquiring DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks.
Now, for the third straight year, the Steelers finally have a capable one-two punch at receiver after trading for Michael Pittman Jr. That said, they are certainly not done making moves at the position, considering they only have four receivers on the roster. Luke Easterling of Athlon Sports believes Pittsburgh will use its first-round pick on the position, taking Omar Cooper out of Indiana.
“Depth was a huge issue for the Steelers last year, and even with the acquisition of Michael Pittman Jr. via trade, they should still look to load up on high-end talent at the position,” Easterling writes. “Cooper’s well-rounded skill set and physical playing style would be an ideal fit, and his knack for making big plays in clutch moments would be a valuable addition, no matter who ends up under center in Pittsburgh next year or beyond.