Steelers DC Patrick Graham reveals linebacker prototype Pittsburgh wants
The Steelers are likely to add a linebacker during the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have 12 picks in next week’s NFL Draft. With the sheer volume of picks they are currently slated to make, Pittsburgh could look to bolster several rooms that need added depth. The linebacker room certainly fits that mold.
During his media availability on Friday, new Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham talked about what kind of profile they look for in a potential addition to the inside linebacker room. “Can they come downhill, can they get underneath players’ pads, and can you use your hands. ” Patrick Graham on the profile on ILB they want: "Can they come downhill, can they get underneath players' pads, and can you use your hands.
" Graham acknowledges the style of ILB has changed over the years. They're now naturally smaller. — Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) April 17, 2026 Graham’s comments suggest that the Steelers are looking to potentially add a run stuffing linebacker to their team through the draft.
This would make sense, as Pittsburgh allowed 113. 1 rushing yards per game during the 2025 regular season. The Steelers have done extensive work by bringing in several players for top 30 pre-draft visits at the linebacker position.